Arrived yesterday afternoon on a buy a gift offer which was my 60th birthday present from my children! The situation of the hotel was lovely, very picturesque and secluded! Very convenient for our favourite lakes!...however we were dissapointed with restaurant!. We booked our table for 7pm as we were hungry! There weren't many main meal choices but went for the roast Turkey as we really fancied a nice Sunday roast! We had two courses as per our voucher and five minutes later the waiter came and said turkey was off sorry!! , I could have understood if we had arrived for dinner late! But 7.10 and no roast left?? My husband chose Cumberland sausage and I settled for salmon, which was the only other choice I fancied! . We waited quite a long time! Before the waiter again came over to say had we not had our starters??? No!!..... Eventually starters arrived! Basic but edible! However although my husband's meal was OK mine was inedible!!!! I hardly touched it!! I think possibly they had been keeping it hot for us and my roast potatoes were like bullets and I've never had to chew salmon fillets!! We also got a glass of wine each in with our voucher and when we checked out they were going to charge us for them!! All in all I was dissapointed in my special night away! Such a shame!

GEOFF W

27/11/2016
,
Garstang, United Kingdom

4

« Very cosy on a cold night »

Stayed here on possibly the coldest night of this Winter! A nice warm entrance hall, and reception handed over the key with a pleasant smile and everything was ready for us on arrival. The bedroom was warm and furnished generously with space to relax, and a new en-suite, tv, and welcome tray. We had booked B and B, with an evening meal for two. Meal had a lot of choice of starters, mains, and sweet. Very good service, bright and cheerful. After breakfast, we drove to Keswick, on 2 good roads, with arrival in 30 minutes, and views of Lakeland`s Blencathra looking high and bright in the snow. Can definitely recommend it for convenient access to the M6 motorway, and a good touring base for the Northern Lake District. Plenty of parking outside, and level access.

purplessss

24/11/2016

5

« Excellent and set in beautiful surroundings »

Gorgeous came here with a friend on a coach trip with coopers tour two day break in sept 2014 the first time I've been and stayed in the hotel we was created by the hotel manager with kindness and friendly attitude. My friend and I went straight to our rooms after getting the keys from the desk my room was lovely big double bed ensuit bathroom with bath and shower shampoo soap bath gel etc was lovely compliment. We went downstairs to be told we couldn't go into the main area in the restaurant as a wedding was on but we got told that dinner would be ready for about half seven for us. We got told were to sit and was given a menu. The food I can say was well presented and it was three course meal lovely food and plenty of it. The only down side we wasn't offered any drinks while having the meal but there was tea and coffee on show for us to get which we could have many refills as we liked. We went into the bar area earlier on and had a drink in the bar although expensive it was good atmosphere. Breakfast was ok not a lot of selection of hot food but it was served hot and again well presented there was good selection of cereals and yogurts to eat and fruit too. Again as much tea and coffee has we liked. The staff was brilliant and couldn't be more helpful. The restaurant had gorgeous gorgeous views absoulty beautiful views so peaceful and really lovely to look at outside the window. My friend and I commented on how lovely the views where after breakfast we did some walking and went up some path that lead us to a small waterfall I couldn't go up because of a previous knee injury but my friend did go up it. Lots of great walking if your into that kind of thing. I couldn't fault the hotel food staff hotel, it was just so beautiful. I would highly recommend this hotel it deserves more then five stars. I just thought it was lovely relaxing place. Great for weekend getaways hen dos stag dos weddings and for romantic getaways. The thing I loved the most is the manager and the staff and for the beautiful surroundings around the hotel and hotel views. I can't wait to come back. Thank you all the staff and hotel manager it made my holiday a great one.

prescotian31

24/11/2016
,
Rushden, United Kingdom

4

« Terrific value on late booking »

We needed a hotel at the last minute and were able to get a lovely warm and comfortable room plus a cooked to order breakfast by booking with Late Rooms for a total of £54 only! Wow! Staff were very friendly and helpful and we had snow overnight as well!

May C

23/11/2016

4

« Engagement weekend »

Had the most amazing time here at shaps the grounds were beautiful and lake district is one of our favourite places to go, the food was amazing people were lovely, as we just got engaged they made a fuss of us, with the pudding and giving us free drinks, we was on a deal, there was a lot of people in the dining hall both nights we stayed, but the buffet breakfast was lovely, would come back again and the only down side to this stay was the rooms were too hot and it was very loud outside, all in all the room was good, and the staff were helpful, we had a great stay.

dusty082016

20/11/2016
,
Wellington Point, Australia

4

« Isolated but good »

As part of a group we found this hotel was pretty good for our purposes. It is very isolated but has a good bar and restaurant and the food is good. The rooms are spacious and most comfortable. Staff were always friendly and helpful

Adeyemi O

18/11/2016

4

« A night stay with my wife for evening wedding reception. »

I would have given this hotel 5stars,but I chose not to. The reason was simple, and I personally think it is quite significant and worthy of mentioning. But before I say the negative,let me tell you about the positive. This hotel is one of the very best in that area in which it is located. You are not far from nature because it is actually located in a rural area. Please permit me to now talk about the negative. As soon as we checked-in, while we were going up to our room, myself and my wife colleague spotted a big cobweb in the main-lift that almost everyone that stayed in this hotel that day would either use to go up, or come downstairs. Well, I thought that was quite unfortunate that the cleaners missed that, and we saw it. Friends,it is for that reason, I won't be giving 5, but 4 stars instead. Thank you.

Cambio2011

17/11/2016
,
Dublin, Ireland

3

« One night stay on our way south »

Stayed here for one night. A pleasant hotel in the countryside (watch out for the winding, narrow country lanes in the dark). The wheelchair accessible bedroom was in another building across a dark and stormy car park but was a pleasant, warm room with a well designed bathroom. The food in the restaurant was very ordinary and the staffing and service quite basic although friendly. Not a bad place to stay but certainly not exceptional.

Stephan C

16/11/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

3

« Coach tours and pensioners in beautiful setting »

We arrived late in a dark autumn night, so were completely blown away when waking up about the beautiful landscape surrounding the hotel.
Sensibly the restaurant/breakfast area takes advantage of this with a large window front overlooking the landscape.
There is a noticeable effort to keep this hotel updated. Various bits and pieces have been modernised, but other things are quite dated (that can't be passed as period features).
It's also noticeable that this hotel is geared towards coach trips and pensioners with a very unimaginary breakfast evening entertainment geared at this target audience.
Staying with dogs in the room was no issue.
Not a place I'd chose for a longer holiday, but it was perfectly alright for an overnight stop-over on the way to Scotland.

Emma C

13/11/2016

4

« Mini moon »

We came to this hotel for a break away for our mini moon. Lovely hotel and very friendly staff! Bed wasn't too comfortable but rooms were nice and clean. Lovely bar and log fire. Food was nice would recomend the beef!

B1bster

13/11/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« Remote »

Stayed for one night whilst working in the area. Good price paid for the night. Breakfast started a little to late for me at 7.30. But overall a nice place. Could do with a little modernisation but the place has a bit of character.

dliddle

13/11/2016
,
huddersfield

1

« Cold and dreadful food »

Usually call here for lunch on way up to Scotland and also on our return. This trip however will be our last. 1230 we would have expected the place to be warm and it certainly wasn't. The bar staff even had fleeces on saying it was cold although not broken down. We ordered a ham sandwich and chips. One catering slice of fatty ham came in between some thick white bread. Frozen chips that were still hard in the middle. Salad that was certainly not fresh with brown lettuce and a few stale crisps!! Not what should ever be served in a Great Western hotel. We shall not be returning to what was a lovely stop off place en route to Scotland.

NickyAlanHyde

11/11/2016
,
Lichfield, United Kingdom

5

« Nice little break away »

Hotel has a lovely mile long private driveway, leading into a very picturesque car park, the hotel is very spacious as was our room, staff were helpful and polite, clean and tidy, drinks were a little expensive, food was reasonable and plentiful, overall a very lovely break away, especially as there was a sprinkling of snow on the ground. Beautiful scenery from our room. I would recommend this hotel highly. Thank you.

CanoeSevern

11/11/2016
,
Cambridge, United Kingdom

4

« Good base for touring »

My husband and I stayed here for 2 nights at the end of September. Staff were friendly and the room was clean and comfortable. Breakfast was average but the evening meal we had was abysmal, I think this was because there was a wedding reception there that day and they didn't have restaurant staff serving in the restaurant. We had to find our own wine glasses and the wine was put on our table unopened. The meal had been kept in the oven for so long, it was inedible and we didn't stay around for dessert even though we had paid for it - that said, I really do think that because of the wedding, they were seriously understaffed and overall I would say that under normal circumstances, this is a very good budget hotel. If you are looking for peace, tranquility and good walks then you will find that here. The hotel is so out of the way, it is very easy to miss the turning.

Duncan G

10/11/2016
,
Wotton-under-Edge, England, United Kingdom

5

« Very pleasant,comfortable stay »

We had a two night stay which we used as a base to visit the Lake District. The room itself was warm, clean and comfortable. The buffet breakfast and evening meal were superb with lots of variety. There was also a very good range of drinks at the bar. The staff were very kind and friendly.
The only issue that we found was the hotel sign on the A6 was right on top of the actual turning for the very narrow road down to the hotel. Though a quick turn around a few yards up the road wasn't a problem.

Currymonster21

09/11/2016
,
Cwmbran, United Kingdom

4

« Great Lakes Hotel »

Stayed here on the way home from a holiday in Scotland. We booked about 3 weeks in advance, through Booking.com, a really great booking service. At the time we were staying bed and breakfast was £72 per night. There is a large carpark and it is reasonably easy to find just off the M6, but far enough out for peace and quiet. Apparently there are some walks around the local area but we were just breaking up our journey from Scotland.
Check in was very easy. The decor is really interesting with old world country house wallpaper, hunting trophies and grandfather clocks. There is a small lift for the upper floors. We were met by some very friendly staff. The room was cosy with lots of storage, nicely decorated and well equipped with a comfy bed, freeview flat screen tv and a huge wardrobe.
We used the restaurant for our evening meal which was really great, prices for food and drink were quite reasonable. This hotel would make a great base for exploring the lake district, which I am hoping to do, at some point in the future. There were several quiet rooms for reading which were nicely decorated and furnished.
I can highly recommend this hotel as a bargain stay.

Roxanne785

08/11/2016

5

« Good hotel »

I have been here with my husband as a stop over prior to arriving in Scotland. The breakfast was nice, room clean and everything we needed for 1 day we could find. The hotel is located off M6 in a rural area.

Rids64

03/11/2016
,
Bristol, United Kingdom

3

« Disappointing evening meal »

One night stop over on the way back from Scotland. Lovely location, only 5 mins from the M6. The room was very good, large and clean with tea making facilities but why no biscuits - smacks of penny pinching.
Unfortunately I was staying on a Wednesday night and it appears that is 'carvery' night in the restaurant. I didn't fancy a Sunday roast on a Wednesday evening but the other choices from the menu were limited and what I did choose was poor. Service was rather slow and disorganised but the staff did appear to be new so maybe they just need more training/time. Breakfast was good, buffet style and plenty of it.
It is definitely coach party territory and probably not the place to go if you want a romantic time away with a partner and gourmet dining.

David M

03/11/2016
,
Livingston, United Kingdom

4

« Good value hotel »

Good value hotel but transport needed. Spacious grounds to explore with a chance to see red squirrels. Large and busy hotel with lots of areas to meet up with others. Games room worth a look too. Meals good value Good location for LakeDistrict

nicola m

02/11/2016
,
newcastle-under-lyme

5

« Wonderful place. »

Booked this hotel for a two night break as it was in a great location to explore the Lake District. The staff were all very helpful and friendly. The hotel bars and lounges were lovely, and the roaring open fire very welcoming. Food was extremely nice, well cooked and plenty of it.We had the bar meals on both nights and breakfast. The bedroom was very pleasant with a lovely view over the stream. The bathroom was very modern and clean. You must go and see the red squirrels. Just fab! There was one very minor issue! Get rid of the loo brush in the bathroom. Not nice.

13salts

01/11/2016

5

« Present from our children »

Excellent stay.food was good value.breakfast was as much as you could eat and plenty to chose from .hotel suite lovely.would love to go back.beautiful surrounding scenery.lots of red squirrels. Total relaxtion.would certainly recommend

Claire C

31/10/2016
,
Douglas, Isle of Man

5

« Lovely hotel with friendly staff »

Just back from a two night stay with four Adults, one teenager and a baby. We received a warm welcome and staff was all very helpful and friendly. Coco on reception and the two bar/lounge staff that was on duty both evenings of our stay worth a mention - sorry can't remember their names. Food was good and well presented. Free internet and games room a bonus when travelling with a teenager! Parents in law even brought along their dog and rooms in the old bath house which dogs can occupy was just as good as the main building, with ample space for the dog and lovely views of the stream. Needed to book somewhere in the area last minute and was able to book the Shap wells hotel. Never stayed before but found it warm and cozy with a lot of character, will definitely return and recommend.

barbhop

30/10/2016
,
Preston, United Kingdom

5

« One night stay »

Well what can I say....... what a gem of a hotel, we stayed one night for my birthday, we had a lovely warm welcome, our room was lovely, after going for a walk we had a lovely meal, I have to say, the food is delicious, good quality and well cooked and presented. Your staff are a credit to you, so friendly and efficient...... Thank you for a lovely stay, we will definitely come again ??

Cazwilsd

30/10/2016

5

« Weekend stay »

Absolutely love this hotel stayed in the old bath house with our four legged friend staff wer friendly and helpful manager was hands on always around and busy working but never to busy to chat,would highly recommend, cosy and peaceful hope to go back soon :)

Peter S

30/10/2016

5

« Weekend lakeland break »

Had a look at the reviews which seemed average but we found a couple of cheap deals at the hotel.
We ended up booking direct as we wanted a double bed. Got a great deal £ 128 for 2 nights with breakfast.
Booking in was simple with a very polite polish lady giving us great service booked us in for friday dinner.
The room 114 was modern well lit and spotlessly clean. A very nice room overall much better than i expected. We got showered and the water seemed to be either red hot or luke warm. My wife showered and it was fine.
Dinner was great 3 courses for £ 21 and again very nice, the starters were superb mains were decent i had chicken my wife pork then followed by cheesecake and fudge cake. A bottle of pinot £ 16.50 washed it all down. I was full and happy.
The room was extremely hot but we slept with the window open you could hear the stream gurgling quite peaceful.
Breakfast was pretty good buffet style you could get anything toast eggs bacon fruit etc they would even cook you poached eggs haddock omlettes fresh. It was all hot and you could eat as much as you wanted. The guy in charge older chap steven i think, was very efficient and well organised. Really ran the place well kept the other staff on their toes nothing was to much trouble for all the staff.
After breakfast we walked up through the woods and watched the numerous red squirrels which had just been fed really cute little beggars.
The second night we had a few drinks and a bar snack my wife had a burger i had the cumberland sausage again all very nice and hot. Drinks were not expensive.
Overall the hotel was great we had no problems at all, no complaints all the staff were great. I cant really understand the below average reviews. I have stayed in many worse places than this and paid a lot more. This place is in a great spot to explore the lakes cheap but has a nice atmosphere. I think the decore puts people off its quite old fashioned but thats part of its charm.
Can't wait to go again we had a great time.

Graeme A

28/10/2016

4

« STOP OVER »

My wife and I were driving down from the North of Scotland to Basingstoke and having had a late departure from the North we were unsure how far we'd go before stopping for an overnight break and hence didn't book in advance.
We found this hotel whose existence I was previously unaware of on the internet. Fortunately they had availability for our one night stop over but wasn't sure what to expect.
I needn't have worried. From a warm welcome from the receptionist, an excellent last minute rate for bed and breakfast and a lovely room we were very happy. Had a bar meal which hit the spot but could have similarly had a three course fixed price dinner in the large restaurant but too late in the evening for us for that.
The room was more than adequate with tv, tea and coffee making facilities and a nice bathroom/shower room and a comfortable bed. Wi-Fi was also free.
Next morning a full buffet English breakfast was had in the dining room with an excellent range available for all tastes.
All in all superb value and we would stay at the Shap Wells hotel again.
It's located about 5 minutes from the M6 and easy access to and from.
Highly recommended.

tony726

24/10/2016
,
london

5

« very enjoyable 3 nights »

yes it was good to be back at the hotel the staff ewere very friendly
a large amount of good staff from spain
i was sorry to learn the general manager as die since my last visit two years ago
a few old staff are still there well done
the food was excellent
yes the hotel is old but as charter and yes old floor board but lots of modern windows and bathroom have been done
a place you must visit to take you back to the goldernages
well done keep up good work
tony mbe

Yvonne G

22/10/2016
,
Bude, United Kingdom

4

« Really enjoyable »

Have just returned from four nights at Shap Wells Hotel on an organised coach holiday and must say we had a really enjoyable time.The hotel is lovely with a great atmosphere.Staff were very friendly,polite and helpful.Room was clean and comfortable.Food was very good,both breakfasts and dinners were well cooked with a good choice of menu,service was friendly and efficient, there were other coach parties there,but we never felt rushed or left waiting.
Thank you to all the staff. A most enjoyable holiday.

sunlover026

22/10/2016
,
Annan Scotland

3

« Murder mystery, with accident to follow! »

Stayed 2 nights for murder mystery and our anniversary next day. Murder mystery was good fun with nice dinner but overworked waitresses so service slow.bon the Sunday, after going out for most of the day we returned to hotel to go for a walk. We went up some steps to the right as you exit and didn't get very far before my hubby didn't see a tree branch and cut his head open, blood everywhere! So returned and got a first aider staff member sent to us with antiseptic wipes and plasters, who attended my husbands wound. She said we needed to complete an accident form. So later after hubby had a rest we returned to reception to complete the form. A duty manager called Stephen came to fill it in what an ignorant horrible man!! At no time did he show any concern for my husband, just told us there were no entry signs there(no there weren't ) and all he did was tut sigh and puff whilst writing! Disgraceful behaviour! We weren't trying to sue or anything, it was husbands own fault, but a little sympathy and concern would have helped. Furious!

KLP19

21/10/2016
,
Windermere, United Kingdom

4

« Loved it!!! »

If you love an old fashioned style hotel, excellent service and nice comfortable rooms with good food and a bit of evening entertainment then this place is for you.....We loved it and will definitely return!!!!!!

DBR43

19/10/2016
,
Whickham, United Kingdom

4

« Interesting location! »

Located "out in the wilds" between two major roads. Excellent restaurant both for food and service, both for dinner and breakfast. Attentive staff. Room was very small, with aged but clean bathroom, and very small window. None the less the room was comfortable, but for the price paid we have had better, larger rooms!

Rose M

18/10/2016

5

« Mrs »

Our stay at the Best Western Shap Hotel was very pleasant. Comfortable clean rooms, friendly staff & delicious food.
Michelle ( reception ) was very attentive & caring towards our 90 year old father her care support towards him was very kind.
We would have no hesitation in recommending this hotel to our friends / family.
There were 2 bus parties staying at hotel while we where there & despite this our stay was pleasant & comfortable.
Rose McLaren

SJD1305

18/10/2016
,
Batley

4

« In need of a refurb »

Despite needing a refurbishment, the hotel ambience is excellent and staff extremely friendly, and food above average for a hotel. Having spent a 2 night stay last weekend, we were impressed with the value for money given.
The hotel is in the middle of nowhere, with pleasant grounds which include a scenic walk beside the stream, and a red Squirrel sanctuary. We were fortunate to see two in the feeding area.
Only real issue is car parking which appears insufficient for the numbers of guests, particularly when coach parties are staying. Also did not appear to be disabled parking facilities.

EnglandDoug60

16/10/2016
,
england

3

« Needs a Refurb »

Just spent the night at Shap Wells Hotel on a murder weekend. The food was great the entertainment was also good too but what let it down for me was the condition of the hotel in parts it is showing its age floor boards sagging as you walk over them and the shower cut off while in the shower was thinking of going back for a soul night but it has put me off shame really.

raven20162016

16/10/2016
,
Walney, United Kingdom

5

« The friendliest Hotel I've ever stayed at »

The hotel is down a one mile drive off the A6, surrounded by moorland and woods inhabited by very inquisitive red squirrels.
The hotel had an old fashioned but friendly feel to it. The food was excellent, good choice and plenty of it, the drinks were far more reasonable than I had anticipated.
The staff were friendly and made us very welcome.
Will definitely use it again.
PS the hotel welcomes dogs

john s

16/10/2016
,
Stevenage, United Kingdom

4

« CLUB VISIT »

This hotel is very remote, just off the M6 motorway, the rooms are good, with TV, tea & Coffee facilities + laundry service, the rooms do get very warm, especially those with a hot pipe going through them, if a radiator is in the room then you can turn it either off or on to your liking, There is also daily feeding of red squirrels which are fun to watch each morning at 08-30.
The restaurant can be very busy especially if there are many coaches there were 4 when we where there, the food is'nt bad but could be better, any had the steak, this was at a charged of approx £6 any veg etc is additional, but worth it.

Liamb91

10/10/2016
,
Liverpool, United Kingdom

3

« Lovely Hotel, Cosy interia, Delicious Breakfast »

Came here for a stop over for 1 night for a little lake district trip. Arrived around 5pm Saturday, easy check in, staff where very helpful. We stayed in room 110, when you get up the stairs it smelt of roast dinners and gravy. The room was too hot when we got in their it must have been atleast 32 degrees atleast, we turned the radiator off and opened the window and noticed outside our window was the Kitchen extractor fan which blew in the smell of the cooked food. We went back out, left the window open to cool down the room, arrived back around 10pm, the room was still too hot as the radiator was off but the radiator pipes where still boiling, we requested a fan from downstairs, it was brought up within 2 minutes. problem solved...until 7am when the window was still open then the noise of the kitchen extractor fans woke me up blowing the smell of full english breakfast into the room, I got up, went for breakfast and it tasted as good as it smelt. All in all was good for 1 night, if i stayed for more i would have requested a room change. The room has TV, Shampoo/Shower Gel, Hangers, extra pillows and towels.

DerbyshireSaddler

10/10/2016
,
Denby

4

« Great location, unusual place »

We did a stopover on a coach trip in July. the outside of the hotel is a bit dated, despite several renovations but has some interesting history. It's very remote so you are a captive audience more or less.
Rooms were small, comfortable but I've seen cleaner. The evening meal was served in the spacious dining room and was pretty average(could be 'coach party syndrome')and usual dire hotel beer. There was another coach party and a rock band tourbus using the hotel. Breakfast was OK. Despite the wet weather we enjoyed it, especially seeing the red squirrels !! Would not like it for more than one night however.

nerjanits

09/10/2016
,
Nerja, Spain

4

« We enjoyed the experience - »

We stayed twice, once on or way to Scotland and again on our return. We expected a little peace and quiet, but with 3/4 coaches 'hitting the front door' almost at the same time, we lost that benefit. The knock on effect was easily anticipated, reception over overwhelmed for a short time, bar and seating area knee deep and restaurant staff admitting to some stress. All worth watching though. The room was clean and tidy, staff as pleasant as they could be and the food palatable. We did not have time to wander about the countryside, next time maybe. We would stay again (but ask about coach parties first!)

Philip S

05/10/2016
,
Pakenham, United Kingdom

3

« Better than expected »

This is literally in the middle of nowhere and it's reached via an one mile long country track. Situated in a valley meant that the views were disappointing and it could do with a bigger car park; it certainly very popular with Japanese tour parties judging by the number of coaches.
My single room was somewhat dated, the bathroom far too small and the room table was far to close to the bed; (managed to smack my head on it). However, the welcome was very friendly, breakfast was excellent, the room was warm and the bed comfortable.

midgeat10

05/10/2016
,
Barnoldswick, United Kingdom

4

« Pleasantly surprised »

We stayed for a weekend with are dog. We had a room away from the hotel in a separate house converted to 8 rooms and was fantastic. The main hotel is geared up for coach trips they seam to turn up each day and seam to be for the older type of people. The food was extremely good we had dinner each night. The main hotel is a bit oldy world but is well kept and we did like it as the location fitted it perfectly. They staff are very helpful. Overall we loved it peace and quiet walks in the woods to feed the red squirrels. We will be returning for sure.

MissyMooMop

26/09/2016
,
Durham, United Kingdom

5

« 1 night break »

I booked this hotel and then read reviews and was quite worried what I had let myself in for. The hotel was lovely. I wouldn't say dated. Our room looked like had just been redecorated but was in style of the hotel. Think if you modernised the rooms it wouldn't be in the feel of the hotel The bathroom was lovely sparkly and modern. The staff were lovely. Same staff on a evening there for breakfast too. Food was hot and fast. Lovely stay really. My only negative of the stay was maybe the cleaners need to remove the off putting accumulation of hair in the plug hole in room 101 but if thats all I have to complain about then hey I had a lovely time. Also the walk out of the hotel were lovely too ;0)

RodneyPerth

26/09/2016
,
perth

4

« Weekend stay at Shap »

I have read several reviews about the shapwells so was prepared for the worse
But we got a nice room with a newly refurbished bathroom and a good view from the Windows
We had one evening meal as part of the deal .to our surprise the meal was very good with my sticky toffee pudding being the best I have for a long time .
The waiters struggle with the language but work very hard.
Our breakfasts were good so we have no complaints so would go back

Steve N

26/09/2016
,
Immingham, United Kingdom

4

« Good Stay but designed for Coach Parties »

Stayed for 3 nights at this BW Hotel. As with most Hotels in this chain it was "quirky" with various corridors connecting rooms throughout the Hotel. My wife had last visited 42 years ago as part of a coach trip and it appears that this is still the main source of revenue. When we were staying we were very much in the minority of guests who had booked in as a couple. However we received a warm welcome and our room was very nice with a mixture of old and new. The bathroom had been upgraded but some of the room furniture had seen better days. The bed was huge and comfortable. We didn't eat in the restaurant and had a couple of bar meals. The food quality was variable and appeared to depend upon how busy the restaurant was at any given time. Breakfast was buffet style and as always with this type of meal could have done to be hotter, However choice and selection was excellent. The bar/lounge was very good and special mention to the Manager on Duty who took the time out to explain the history of the Hotel.
I would recommend a walk in the grounds to look for the Red Squirrels which were an added attraction.
In all a good stay and would return again in the future.

RosietheGuideDog

26/09/2016

5

« Welcoming with stunning red squirrels »

A delightful stay 2 night stay in the annex the Old Bathhouse; room warm cosy & yes a little tight around the bed but nonetheless comfortable & cosy for that. Ate in restaurant on Friday night where the food was hot tasty well presented and service was prompt & efficient. Breakfast on both mornings despite wedding parties and coach travellers getting there before us was good filling fare. Full English plus range of cereals pastries and if you chose from menu has cheeses etc. For a building of its age and history we thought it was well maintained and turned out; wifi worked everywhere on site & parking was good again in spite of weddings and coaches.
We were made to feel very welcome by all esoecially Frederico to whom we extend our thanks.
Eating away from the hotel Shap itself is a disaster the Kings Arms Hotel wasn't pleasant but the Butchers Arms a few miles out in Ravenscroft is more than worth a visit great food atmosphere and very reasonably priced.

Exploring_StephenJ

26/09/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

4

« Great location, interesting hotel and excellent VFM. »

The location was really good, on the edge of the lake district and the Yorkshire dales aren't far either.
The hotel was charming, with many period features, the room was good too. The staff were very accommodating and helpful.
I was a little worried after reading some reviews but we had a great break and it was excellent value for money.

Malachy F

25/09/2016
,
Liverpool, United Kingdom

4

« Malachy »

Its got hot and cold water,ideal for Kendal &Penriff and great outdoor pursuits.service is great and very helpfull,but the food not the best,the beds have thin blankets and can get cold at night.You do get a complete mix of people staying that can overlap peoples reasons for staying here ..

colin942

20/09/2016
,
Shrewsbury, United Kingdom

3

« Lovely location »

Arrived as part of a pre booked coach party, booking in easy but immediately disappointed when informed we couldn't eat in the restaurant and that there would be no entertainment, as advertised due to a private function. Room was very small and it is the fist time we have experience a bathroom and toilet without a hand basin, this was part of the desk/dresser in the bedroom. We also had a problem with our wine at dinner, eventually solved but was then presented a bill next morning for nearly twice the advertised price, needless to say we stuck to our guns and only paid the menu price.

gwen l

19/09/2016

1

« summer break »

my partner and I booked to stay in this hotel for a five night break, on the web site it looked ok. On arriving and entering the hotel it looked very worn and tired, this theme continued throughout the hotel .The food at the evening meal was of a poor standard and was cold, one very young waiter was particularly rude towards us, wont go into detail about this as it was dealt with when we complained but I am afraid it ruined our meal. I had a very poor nights sleep, fans from the kitchen running, I was assured they stopped at 10pm but this did not happen!! and we had to have the window open as it was so hot and stuffy in the bedroom. Our 5 night stay turned into a 2 night stay as we could not put up with this poor service any longer. The only good thing about this experience was the fact that we saw a red squirrel when walking in the woods. This Hotel seems to cater mainly for bus loads of retired people as 4 buses came in when we were sat outside having a drink. Needless to say we wont be staying there ever again.

whickersunshine

19/09/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« Short Break »

We booked a two night break at this hotel using a Buy a Gift voucher. A very comfortable stay in fairly large hotel set in a valley in the moorland along side a beck which rushed by the hotel. The M6 motorway is approx. 1 mile away, but you can not hear it On arrival we were surprised to find wine and chocolates had been placed in our room to help celebrate my birthday. A very nice touch! Thanks to the hotel staff.
We were staying bed and breakfast but enjoyed a lovely meal in the dining room on my birthday evening.
A pleasant live singer/guitarist entertained the bar crowd, many of whom I think were coach holidaymakers.
The buffet breakfast was varied and very tasty. A good start to the day. Pity the weather wasn't better as we would like to have seen the local moorland in its' splendour.
Nevertheless, a good stay in a hotel which must be admitted is in a unique location.

Richard s

19/09/2016
,
West Bromwich, United Kingdom

4

« Weekend stay »

Had this as a 50 th birthday present stayed in the old bath house rooms really nice and comfy bar good and games room fun food not the best but a fantastic location would go again..when we were there the weather wasn't brilliant so that restricts a little what you can do but done some exploring beautiful place to visit.

jetboot

18/09/2016
,
harrogate

3

« Lovely isolated location »

Having stopped here 3 years ago. Decided to stop again.
Was given room 38 which was a small double room which was clean with comfy bed.
Powerful shower in bathroom.
Internet had weak signal.
Breakfast in morning is buffet style and food was lukewarm.
Many of the guest in the hotel were from coach parties
One of the reason we returned is the location and to see the red squirrels which didn't disappoint.

tjones_10

14/09/2016
,
Appleby-in-Westmorland, United Kingdom

3

« Stayed for a wedding »

Food not great cold small portions. Couldn't do more for my son being coeliac thought. Stayed night in very dated room, accidentally left a ring in the room but the staff must of liked it as it was never handed in to reception.

Daniel C

14/09/2016

1

« Just kind of terrible... »

I really don't like leaving negative reviews because I understand this is a workplace people put care into, but this was a terrible overnight stay.
Little issues don't tend to bother me but when you get that matched with terrible service it adds up. No working wifi, a bizarrely loud bathroom, and parts of my food not being properly cooked. Okay. These things happen. But then it took about 45 minutes for my meal to arrive and the excuse I got was a blunt "we're understaffed". Once we were done, no staff came to offer desert or clean up.
I can sympathise however there was no apology, and they should've been prepared to be understaffed cause of the 3.6 million elderly that were checked in to stay overnight - so I don't see this as a reason and more of a feeble excuse, however I wouldn't expressly blame the staff for this and more the management.
Perhaps on another day it'd be better. Without a lot of other guests and more staff the food may improve, the service may be even remotely reasonable and the room might not literally make loud mechanic noises - however unfortunately the day we stayed was just bad.

diane m

13/09/2016
,
Bristol, United Kingdom

3

« suitable for a base to explore the lake district »

we stay for 4 nights on an escorted tour and although the hotel is well laid out our double room was quite small with little drawer space. the shower didn't work properly which resulted in a dribble of water on your head and hot feet from the tap. the hot buffet breakfast was varied to suit all tastes but the evening meal plain and dull. the waiting staff were friendly but seemed to lack training as they dashed around the dining room seemingly with no set tables to serve. there was a well stocked bar and plenty of comfortable lounges to sit in during the evenings.

EilidhG

11/09/2016
,
Cromarty, United Kingdom

4

« Overall - a good experience! »

We have stayed at Shap Wells several times. We would have liked to have stayed there much more but at certain times of the year it is fully booked. We find it a very good "all rounder" stopping place for us travelling from the north of Scotland to do business in England.

stephen j

10/09/2016
,
Liverpool, United Kingdom

3

« quiet time »

if you want to get away from it all go to this hotel in the middle of couple of fields full of sheep which might be part of its charm to some people. room was dated but clean and big enough for wife and myself breakfast was good and evening meal fine. its a nice and quiet hotel with decent bar and singer on the night we went ideal for people wanting quiet time

This hotel is situated midway between Kendal and Penrith. It is also close to the village of Orton, where I have a holiday home.
To reach the hotel, you must travel along a single track road that connects the B6261 and the A6 main road, meandering through wild moorland fells, The fells are populated by sheep and other animals, so drivers will cross several cattle grids to reach the hotel, which is situated in a beautiful wooded valley. Road signs draw attention to the colony of red squirrels within the hotel grounds (an endangered species in the UK).
This large hotel was constructed in 1863 with subsequent additions. Consequently, it is not a modern building. On the contrary, Shap Wells is a traditional country house hotel, which features a comfortable interior with lots of dark wood and frosted glass. During the Second World War, the building became a POW camp for German prisoners.
Although I visit the area frequently, I have never stayed at the hotel. Consequently, this is purely a review of the Sunday carvery in the large Birkbeck Restaurant, an art-deco room with panoramic views over the Birkbeck and the Westmorland fells. The beck (stream) rushes past the windows of the restaurant, which can accommodate around 300 people, and is popular with local families. The adjoining Riverside Lounge and bar, where visitors can relax in the roomy seats with leather upholstery, is welcoming and comfortably furnished.
The Shap Wells hotel offers carvery lunches between 12.15pm and 2pm on Wednesdays and Sundays. I have enjoyed the carvery on several Sundays. Diners can choose to eat as much or as little as they wish from the following courses:
Home-made soup of the day
Salad bar
Carvery, featuring roast beef and at least one other roasted joint, local Cumberland sausage, poached salmon, a vegetarian option, steamed vegetables and roasted / boiled potatoes.
Desserts, featuring various gateaux and fresh fruit salad (with pouring cream).
Cheese board, with stilton and other British cheeses.
Diners can help themselves to tea and coffee in the adjoining Riverside lounge and bar (included in the price).
The Sunday carvery provides incredible value and the variety is extensive. The quality was excellent, every time I dined there.
I have only one minor quibble. The bar sells a good range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, with a decent wine list (not over-priced). Beers include various keg and bottled varieties, plus one cask conditioned beer (real ale). The guest beer last Sunday was Helvellyn Gold (from the Hesket Newmarket brewery in Cumbria), described on the pump clip as a smooth golden bitter. It tasted OK, but the beer was not golden. It was actually so cloudy that it resembled a German wheat beer. This was the second time I have been disappointed with the condition of a cask beer from the bar at Shap Wells, so perhaps the cellar manager should check the way his staff store and serve the hotel's one and only real ale.

Mr_Andy_UK

06/09/2016
,
Leeds, United Kingdom

4

« Characterful hotel »

Lots of character and beautiful location. We stayed just one night and were away for most of it so unfortunately could not take full advantage of the hotel and did not eat there. The only blemish was that we had booked two triple rooms but found that we'd only been allocated two doubles on what was clearly a very busy Saturday evening, so it took about three quarters of an hour and a fair bit of messing about for things to be rearranged to enable us to move into two suitable rooms. The staff were helpful in sorting the problem out, but we could have done without the delay.

Barbara R

05/09/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« lovely old hotel »

We checked into this lovely old hotel with our dog and was actually given a room in the hotel itself rather than the annexe, which is usally where pets are allowed.
We were given a room on the first floor (117). The room itself was lovely and the bathroom was really nice.
The only problem we had, when we opened the window all we could hear was very loud aircon units which were situated outside the window!
The loud noise went on till about 10pm mand then started up again about 5am!!!!
We ate in the lounge as the dog was allowed in there and actually had a lovely meal.
Breakfast in the morning was ok, mainly buffet style, but there was also a menu to choose from.
Our trip was even better as we managed to see a few of the red squirrels that live in the lovely grounds, a member of staff feeds them every morning!
If it wasn't for the noise it would have been a great night!!!

bimpatg

05/09/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely place. helpful staff. »

We got allocated the same room twice, which was strange, as it is a huge hotel. Small room, poor view. Great shower! Good value for money though. A really beautiful walk near the hotel, with waterfalls and red squirrels.

Vicky H

05/09/2016

3

« Lovely hotel. Food not the best »

We arrived very late due to a long drive. The hotel seemed lovely and in a great location. We were promptly shown to our room and we was happy with it. Very spacious. Bathroom could have been bigger but that's just my preference. It was clean and tidy. We ordered room Service that night as it was too late to dine. We ordered chilli and rice. It was lovely. The next morning. We woke early and I could hear the hustle and bustle outside our window. We were situated to the back of the hotel and where the kitchens were. It never bothered us as we had a busy day and was already awake. We left for the day and came back to a tidy room. We had a table booked to dine for the second nights stay. When we arrived in the dining area it didn't seem to busy. We were seated and our order taken. We ordered drinks and asked for a jug of cold water as well. Which we never received. Our starters came out we ordered fish cake. Nothing to shout about. Not particularly well presented. And cold in the middle. We then waited for a further 45minutes!! For our mains. The waiter came to us and asked us if we was waiting for anything! Yes our main course! We had ordered steak medium to well. And duck. Within a minute our orders appeared with the excuse that we had ordered two of longest meals to cook. The steak was under cooked. Pale and just tasted horrible. The duck was tough and the mash it came with was dry almost like it was instant mash. We complained and the waiter offered us another drink on the house. No offer of changing the steak or duck. In the end I had to ask for a steak knife to cut my duck up with. But even then it was just tough and rubbery. At this point we had had enough. The long wait. And disappointment was enough to put us off our food so we left the dining area. And retired back to our room. It was then we noticed the noise coming from the kitchen the loud banging and chattering. I'm not going to complain too much about that but the noise continued until at least 2330 and started again at around 0700 the following morning which did wake us up.
I can't complain about breakfast. Help your self buffet with a good selection of cereals juices. And porridge as well as the usual fry up foods. Which my bf very much enjoyed. We voiced our complaint to the reception upon our checking out and the gentleman was very apologetic and straight away discounted us some money from our bill without a fuss or argument. It didn't make up for the annoyance of us not enjoying our food however it helped.
I have to say we didn't have an issue with any of the staff and their service during our meal. It was merely the lack of organisation in the kitchen from the chefs!

HaynesyK

04/09/2016

3

« Pretty area »

We stayed for one night with dinner, bed and breakfast. The welcome wasn't great, we were waiting a while at reception with staff behind the counter who we're either too busy or I assume were unable to help, however when we were served all the staff were friendly and accommodating.
The food at dinner was ok. The breakfast was 'help yourself' and was fine.
The plus is that hotel is in the middle of beautiful countryside, but the decor inside the hotel lets it down, needs updating/modernisation.

Ian L

04/09/2016

2

« Nice hotel but food not good »

Just returned from a 2 night stay at the hotel. It is a very oldy woldy hotel that has been through a modernisation program and the room was clean and very adequate. The only problem we had was the food which we had to send back on 2 occasions for being under cooked then warmed up in microwave to turn it into rubber. The staff were great from reception through to cleaners.

jeff p

04/09/2016
,
Saltash, United Kingdom

5

« Would visit again »

The wife and I stayed here for five days and enjoyed it.We traveled up from Cornwall so we was ready for the break.We loved the lay out of the hotel and our room was quite roomy compeared to other hotels we have stayed in,the food was very good too as was the staff.The only negative I can think of at the moment is the smoking area which is right outside the main entrance of the hotel,So if you are a non smoker as we are you enter the hotel through this area which smells so what and if your room is in the front of the hotel you get the smell of this in your room if your window is open.But all said and done we would go back but have a room at the rear.

Craigmccann

03/09/2016
,
Bradford-on-Avon, United Kingdom

5

« Shap well hotel a hidden gem »

Me and my wife where on a motorbike trip to Scotland when unfortunately we broke down on the A6, we urgently called our insurance company who told us we did not have the break down cover so we was stranded in the middle of no where. I called everyone I could to come rescue us but at short notice it was clear we was going to be stuck so I decided to push the bike in the hope of finding a town that would have accommodation. Over a mile later we saw a sign for the Shap wells hotel but we couldn't see the hotel so was wondering wether to continue or to risk it and go see if it was close, thankfully the road was mainly down hill so me and the wife free wheeled like teenagers towards a beautiful period look building. Upon entering we were amazed by the stunning architecture and the grandness of what we had accidentally stumbled across. We went to the front desk and explained our predicament and it was like we were royalty, The gentleman started looking at his computer and then ran upstairs to check if a room was ready and came back to reassure us every would be OK and gave us a room for the night with dinner plus bed and breakfast and then the manager came And informed us due to the fact it was our honeymoon there would also be free drinks ! WOW we was both in shock. We took our bags to a delightful room that was very clean and felt warm and homely and then explored this hidden gem of a building. My wife is a history geek and to find out the history of the hotel excited us even more and couldn't believe what we had found. Dinner time came and we walked into a dining room that had the most beautiful views and as for the food well that was an even bigger gem, succulent steak that was mouth watering and puddings fit for a 5* restaurant it was just amazing. We retired back to our room (slightly tipsy) and laid in total silence blissfully drifting into the best nights sleep in a long time. Overall this has been the best hotel experience I have ever had with extremely polite and helpful staff we will be coming back for more. 10/10 for everything.
Craig & Rebecca Room 101

dees s

03/09/2016
,
Birmingham, United Kingdom

3

« Stop off overnight »

First impressions are quite quaint place from outside.
Having entered the hotel its very dark and dated, shabby and I would say more a 2 star or very basic 3 star hotel. Receptionist ok, although she struggled to understand us?
Requested a family room but when we went to room - 18 - was very pokey and 3 single beds? although req dble and 1 single? Dark and quite dingy, so we req another room and was given -24 - much brighter with 2 x single beds put together and 1 single, more space than prev room. Very dated dark red/gold interior/decor and bedding, net curtain seen better days and quite dirty looking, Hygiene, although sheets, towels looked clean, the coffee cups were stained and couple of the saucers sticky and unclean, so felt I had to wash them first. Bathroom was generally clean on the surface with good size shower, but lots of attention needed to give a thorough clean in corners and under sink etc. Good size wardrobe, and the small table was handy. TV was located in corner of room so if youre on the 2 single (dble bed) beds then you would have to turn to your right to watch it properly? Why didn't they put the tv on the wall in front of beds??
Breakfast was ok, all buffet style except tea and coffee, cups on table stained and not that spruce, no fruit, nuts, pastries or cheeses/ham etc, just cereal, prunes or lots of cut up oranges, juices, and cooked breakfast, which was decent. Had toast machines and lots of jams to choose from. The dining room felt dark and dingy, needs major re-furb to brighten this place up and make it more inviting and appealing.
Overall very basic, no frills stay, dated and gloomy..Wouldn't stay again..Overpriced rooms for quality and breakfast overpriced at £10 phead!!!!

phillip b

02/09/2016
,
Shrewsbury, United Kingdom

5

« Red Squirrel and Dog Friendly »

This is the second time we have stayed here,location is excellent for getting around, every where is accessible giving you time to get where you are going and have plenty of time to walk ,climb or just shop and still have loads of time to get back un-rushed for a lovely evening meal.Breakfast is really good and sets you up for the day the staff cannot do enough for you,we stayed in the bathhouse because we have a dog who decided to howl on our first morning whilst we were at breakfast,I spoke to reception because I did not want to upset any other guests and they let have our breakfast in the lounge the following two days excellent customer service.The Red Squirrels which are numerous was just the icing on the cake,we will be going back soon,highly recommended.

aitchraz

01/09/2016
,
Yateley

4

« A hidden pearl »

We had tried to book into a Hotel in Grassmere but they were fully booked and looking through the Best Western book we came across this Hotel. They had a vacancy at a reasonable price so we booked.
I do have to say that it is a little difficult to find as when you leave the motorway and are heading towards the Hotel there is a huge sign saying the hotel is just along the road, but when you get there the main signage on the opposite side of the road to the turning is hidden from those approaching from motorway by trees that really need to be cut back, so be careful as you could overshoot.
Having turned onto this private road leading to the Hotel all we could see was grassland and sheep, so again be careful as they do have a tendency to just walk across the road. When we rounded a sharp bend we saw the building which looked quaint but not too old.
This Hotel has its own character. We loved it and had 2 very enjoyable days there. We did have a couple of glitches but they did not detract from the overall stay.

Paulsufc

01/09/2016
,
Scunthorpe, United Kingdom

3

« Visited Shap. »

Quirky but in a nice way. All the staff very attentive and helpful, nothing was an issue. Food in restaurant fairly priced and on my experience very tasty and enough of it. The buffet breakfast was more than acceptable. Had the pleasure of going for a little walk and saw several red squirrels - added to the 2 days. We used a gift voucher but was a little disappointed with room size and no offer of a paid for upgrade.. Although the bed was more than comfortable.

PaulaMol

31/08/2016
,
Worcestershire, United Kingdom

4

« One Night Stay for Cartmel Races »

We stayed here for 1 night as part of a family occasion to celebrate an 80th birthday before going off to Cartmel races.
The Hotel itself is tired in places but overall it was good value. The evening meal was better than breakfast and the staff were very pleasant and efficient.
The bedroom itself was a bit dated and the curtains in the bedroom were quite dirty with mold on due to condensation. The bathroom however, had been updated which was better.
I found that items on the breakfast were not cooked enough for my tastes but for others it was ok. I would have liked the sausage and bacon cooked a little more.
Breakfast is on a buffet style with a good selection of juices, cereals, toast and cooked breakfast.
There was entertainment on the Sunday night which was an added bonus for the birthday celebration and the singer recognised the occasion we were celebrating.
The hotel itself is set of a main road and there were lots of sheep for neighbours! It has a lovely stream and overall it was good value. There didn't appear to be any shops around but the hotel did ask if we wanted newspapers the following day. I would stay here again for a short visit.

770StevieB

29/08/2016
,
Morecambe, United Kingdom

4

« Overnight stay »

Stayed just the one night for a wedding in the near location.
Lovely oldie worldly hotel but with all the amenities you could wish for in a stunning location in the middle of sheep and cattle farms with a stream running down the side.
Bathrooms have obviously been modernised which leave the actual room looking a bit dated (decore wise).
Very busy at breakfast time but very large dining area seemed to cope very well as did the staff.
Would like to return for a longer stay in the near future and I believe the carvery is supposed to be the best in the area, absolutely no complaints whatsoever.

PSCumbria

29/08/2016
,
Cumbria

3

« Afternoon tea »

Been here before and although more basic than some was very pleasant. Not this time though. Tea for 4 consisted of 12 tiny finger sandwichespecially some not uniform in shape, slices being odd sizes - on a sandwich, not just a group of oddities. 4 huge scones - 2 fruit, 2 plain - no butter, jam enough for 2 of scones, although you could ask for more, and squirty cream again just enough for 2. Cakes were very disappointing. 1 piece of brownie cut into 4, 1 sliver of flapjack, 1 small piece of apricot slice cut into 2 and 2 small rectangles of victorIan sponge, 1 of which had the top piece of sponge missing. Presentation!! We also heard similar grumbles from the other group who were there. There was a wedding in progress when we arrived and although we had booked felt like we were put out of the way. Very nice setting though and they do have brilliant Christmas parties.

Madeleine D

28/08/2016

2

« Once only »

To be positive, thank you to the manager for collecting us from the Kings Head in Shap when we were let down by our pick up service. The room wasn't large and the bathroom was damp and dismal but we were glad of the heated towel rail to dry our wet walking gear. We headed to the bar for a snack. Poor food and we felt like we had stepped back in time. It was bank holiday so big coach parties. The female vocalist gave it her best shot but the audience were most unappreciative. Very strange and I have no idea why this place is appealing in the middle of nowhere. We were on the C2C and one night was more than enough.

MrsSpinks09

28/08/2016
,
Darlington, United Kingdom

5

« A brief overnight stay »

Had one night stay here as we were at a friends wedding at a nearby venue.
The room was spacious, clean & comfortable.
The hotel was literally in the middle of the countryside...... Bit daunting in the middle of the night driving down the country lane in the dark!
Breakfast: there was plenty of choice- cereals, pastries, cooked breakfast & different hot & cold drinks.
A brief but pleasant stay.

kennethhill2015

25/08/2016
,
Sheffield, United Kingdom

3

« A weekend visiting the Lakes »

The staff were good and food improved after first night The location is surrounded by moors
Sheep cows and squirrels and there are walks. The history about the Hotel is very interesting There was a singer on
only one evening the other nights
were quiet without entertainment.

Michael L

25/08/2016
,
Hartlepool, United Kingdom

3

« quirky destination »

My visit to this hotel was part of a bridge weekend brilliantly organised by Helen's Bridge. The hotel is on the fells a couple of miles from Shap with a beautiful stream running around it. The décor is traditional but the rooms are tiny, at least mine was! The food was adequate but the service was slow.

gez56

23/08/2016
,
Birmingham, United Kingdom

1

« fawlty towers »

stayed one night and glad to escape
pokey rooms clean but not even room put one small case without falling over it
could only find one double socket for kettle and hairdryer had to take turns charging phones etc
staff very poor and very unattentive especially in the restaurant had to constantly call them to get served
now the food worst we have ever seen or tasted can only be described as horrible we had beef and swede and carrot mash terrible! Yorkshire pudding was like polystyrene unedible other peoples plates seemed to confirm this
our pudding was supposed to be apple pie waiter returned and said it was apple crumble you couldn't tell which it was any way looked a right mess and had one mouthful and left it
to be fair the breakfast we were dreading was pretty good

Jeff B

22/08/2016
,
uk

3

« Beautiful location »

Stayed here for a long weekend with my wife, it is in a beautiful location with the stream running by however the service can be a little bit hit and miss we were served by Kieran who was particularly very enthusiastic nothing was too much trouble for him. As previous reviews have said this hotel could do with a little bit of tender loving care however please remember that it is an old building and as such will require ongoing maintenance. In my opinion it is well worth a stay you just have to take the rough with the smooth, the food that we were served was of a good quality and a good temperature. This is our second visit to the Shap Wells Hotel and we will definitely return in the future.

eddiec927

19/08/2016
,
Killarney, Ireland

1

« No no »

This place is a definite no no food terrible put in dog kennels in old bath house dark dreary depressing staff like zombies cop yourselves on could be good never stayed in worse even best western in Dover was better and that was a dump

AljanSheffield

18/08/2016
,
Sheffield

4

« Quiet location gives feeling of total isolation »

Just spent a long weekend based at Shap Wells Hotel on a coach tour of the lakes. The location is brilliant for a quiet hideaway from hustle and bustle of modern living. You can lie in bed and watch sheep and cows grazing on the hillside. Our room was located on the second floor at the back with creaky floors so it was a bit unfortunate for occupants below on the first floor. The room itself was very homely with dated decor but adequate for our needs. The food on the first evening was very minimal especially the main courses vegetable portion which consisted of 2 small potatoes, a teaspoonful of peas and 2 slivers of leek. Its a good job we had eaten a snack mid afternoon. Subsequent nights it did improve. In contrast the breakfasts were very good. The main thing lacking was evening entertainment and by 9.30 pm the bar was empty with most guests having gone to bed except for us and a couple of others. Sunday night was totally different as a singer was performing until 10.30 so people stayed up and I would assume that takings over the bar were higher than previous nights. Would certainly go back to stay there.

Andy M

16/08/2016

3

« Weekend in the Lakes »

Spent a lovely leisurely weekend in the lakes basing ourselves at Best Western Shap Wells. Located about 5 minutes from the M6 is accessible from north or south. The hotel is vastly different from our normal accommodation but a lovely location and place. Our room was relatively small but clean and warm. Decor of the hotel is aging but agin the whole hotel was clean and warm. The staff were very pleasant on the phone, at check in, check out and any questions we had. The bar staff were very pleasant too. The bar area and restaurant are large and we were worried that we would be alone. This hotel is a stopover and base for many English and Scottish coach companies.
We didn't eat in the restaurant but did the bar. The food was nice. The breakfast was also good having a buffet choice. We opted to eat on the Saturday in a pub in Shap. Excellent value for money here.
The hotel had great wifi coverage in our room and bar area. Phone reception is relatively poor. The hotel also has a lot of squeaky floor boards which I think add to the charm.
Using this as a base you have great access to Ambleside, Keswick and the rest of the lakes - a car is vital for this though.
Access to the hotel is through single track roads with sheep mingling around. Provides some challenges leaving, and brings a smile to your face.

baddayatthezoo

16/08/2016
,
Redcar, United Kingdom

4

« Really Good Hotel »

Yes it's a bit old and you get creaky floors and dated decor but its got character and it all adds to the experience. Booked 3 rooms for a family weekend break. 6 adults, 2 small children. (attending a wedding in the area) One of the rooms had a bit of an odour about it - immediately changed by reception to a better room with a kingsize bed! All staff very friendly - Breakfast experience very good - all seated together, complete with highchair and cushion for toddler to sit at the table. Morning of the wedding realised had forgotten to take a tie - member of staff loaned me his tie to save the day.

755lynettea

16/08/2016

4

« Disabled access and good accomodation »

This hotel is well set up for the wheelchair user. We had a room in the Bath House which was accessible and comfortable. A pocket door on the bathroom would be nice. the door was large and took up a lot of room

Jane E

14/08/2016
,
Liverpool, United Kingdom

3

« A family seperated »

We needed a family room, 2 adults a child and a dog. They told us we would have to have. 2 rooms. When we arrived we were in 2 different buildings. The sad thing is there was enough room in the twin room to fit another bed in. Anyway besides for that the place is sad, tired in need of some TLC. Breakfast was a bit basic but edible,( except the fried eggs they were very greasy). I think you get what you pay for, as long as you are forewarned of its short comings you can get by. It was ok for an overnight stay.

603marions

14/08/2016
,
Dumfries and Galloway, United Kingdom

5

« We're in for a surprise! »

We driving past many time. Saying we must pay that hotel a visit.We wise we had .Lovely enterent wooding panels and big welcome doors .into good big recipient deck very hopeful Staff's .show us to a big dinner room.Sunday carvery was on Soup,cold starters,two meats, Cumberland sausage ,fish,yorkshire pudding,4 vegetables,grave,sauce and 5 different pudding and cheese and biscuits.tea and coffees.Great meals. Excellent value We will be back

Charleystreather

13/08/2016
,
Sandilands, United Kingdom

1

« Oh dear. »

An impromptu stop off on a long journey home for one night. We should've just kept on driving. Canteen type food in the restaurant, drinks from the top shelf which seemed very 'weakened', no wifi in the room, uncomfortable bed, tired decor. Couldn't be bothered to mention shortcomings to the manager chap, he was busy fielding complaints from others.
Other guests at the place seemed to be satisfied, but I've absolutely no idea why.
No need for a response comment from the manager, I'm not interested and won't ever be going back.

shropshiretraveller9

12/08/2016
,
Shropshire, United Kingdom

5

« Really can't fault it »

I've just returned from 4 nights at Shap Wells and I can't fault it. I'm not easily pleased and have been known to find fault with 5 star hotels but this hotel is great. It's old and full of character but clean and cared for.
My double room was spacious and clean with beautiful bedding and a nice sized, light and airy ensuite (down 3 steps which may have been an issue for some but no problem for me). It was quiet and had everything I needed for my stay.
The food was fine, the mid week carvery was excellent and I'd have liked this sort of meal every day as I prefer to select how much I have on my plate rather than have it plated for me which can result in waste, but that's personal preference. There was a good choice and range of food, it was nicely cooked and served by pleasant staff who were all very efficient and helpful - as were staff throughout the hotel.
The entertainment was fine, perfectly pleasant singers and magician and there were plenty of places to sit away from the entertainment if it wasn't to your taste. There are numerous clean and comfortable sofas and chairs in a total of 5 seating or bar areas, more than in any hotel i've previously visited.
I used the gym on only one occasion, I would have used it more if I'd had the time, it is only small but free of charge with complimentary towels and water.
The grounds are beautiful with lots of walks and, of course, the added bonus of the red squirrels. The hotel is set a mile off the road, down a single track meaning that it's very peaceful. A stream runs through the grounds with some beautiful waterfalls. It really is tranquil and well worth visiting.

NeringaKC

09/08/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« getaway »

very nice and cosy place,beautiful nature around.I loved authentic old style interior in this hotel. clean,comfortable and for a very reasonable price. staff nice and helpful. Definitely would come back ??

kairron

07/08/2016
,
Grange-over-Sands, United Kingdom

3

« the food has really gone downhill, lovely location, grubby rooms. »

this is our second visit to shap wells, we love the location its quiet if you stay in the bath house and our dog loves the nearby walks. on the first occasion we stayed we had no complaints about the food we really enjoyed it and the waitress service was good, but we did complain on a previous tripadvisor review about the cleanliness of the rooms. we decided to give shap wells a second chance . its not far away for us and has a fascinating history and we love the area. we booked a 2 night dinner,bed and breakfast break from which we have returned today. we had recently suffered a family bereavement and were hoping for some peace,quiet, good food and a clean room. we had the peace and quiet but not the other two. the food was awful on both nights we stayed for dinner, salad leaves going soggy,brown on the edges, strange combinations on the menu, prawn and apple salad, ham and onion salad ,soup from a packet, undercooked gammon, , a ribeye steak served lukewarm cooked incorrectly, sent back "flashed" so it was now overdone and full of gristle, at a £4.95 extra charge plus the £1.95 for a tiny jug of stilton sauce. our food was barely edible and we declined eating our breakfast on our breakfast in our room today as pre arranged after stripping our bed we found pillow protectors stained by other guests, hairs and glitteron the mattress protector. strip it on you find multiple hairs , and what looks diarrhoea ingrained into the base of the mattress and the base for room 94

holiday1231239

07/08/2016
,
Tyne and Wear, UK

3

« In desperate need of some TLC »

Stayed here with a group of friends for total warrior.
The hotel is very tired and in need of some care. Can't comment on the food as we didn't eat there but the rooms had the smallest bath I had ever seen!
The hotel is very remote. Staff friendly! If I return to the area I would stay else where!

markmichaela

01/08/2016
,
Stockton-on-Tees

3

« Dinner, Bed & Breakfast »

Me and my wife were bought a trip away with dinner, bed and breakfast, and we chose to spend it at the Shap Wells hotel due to its close location to the Lakes. We arrived to a picturesque hotel in a lovely location, away from the hustle and bustle in a town centre. The room we had was a really nice size, with modern bathroom, good sized TV as well. Upon going down for dinner (3 courses are 21.95) we were presented with an ok meal. I had prawn salad (good) and ribeye steak with Stilton sauce (sauce was a little runny). The crumble I had for desert was good also. My wife was not so lucky, she had the soup, tikka masala and cheesecake. Although they weren't inedible, she didn't really enjoy them. Drinks are reasonably priced for a hotel.
Upon returning to the room, we found we were near to the reception venue where there was a wedding reception. Music was really loud and the bass drummed into our bedroom. This meant we couldn't get to sleep till the early hours of the morning, which was the worst part of the stay. Room was really warm at night as well, so only got a few hours sleep.
Breakfast the next morning, however was really nice. If the sleep quality had been better, I would have scored this a 4.

StanM3

31/07/2016
,
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

3

« Accommodation »

Was traveling south to see family, and as it was a long journey, thought we would break up the trip with an overnight stop. Found this place on booking.com (should have been con instead of com!) anyway, looked good, so booked with them £74 for the night including breakfast. Found the place, absolutely set in the middle of nowhere. Lovely hotel, friendly helpful staff. Room was pleasant enough though could have done with a little more soundproofing, could hear everything people next door were doing! Breakfast in morning was ok, good selection.
Would stay again, even with when arriving there was a big BIG banner outside saying £59 per night? Booking must of made £15 just for an e-mail. Book direct if you can, BUT checkout tripadvisor for info first ??

Ann_Orac

31/07/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

1

« Ok hotel room, terrible food and service »

It was like a time warp back to the 60's. The hotel decor was new, shame about everything else. Style from the 60's. The logo is hotels with personality..that is surly. The wi fi was not working in the room but the person I contacted queried that, however they finally had to admit it wasn't connecting to the internet out in the bathhouse area. So no room wi fi.
We stayed one night, and as the hotel is isolated we decided to eat in the restaurant, after all it couldn't be that bad, could it? Out first course consisted of a few shavings of melon with some coloured flavouring. The waiter taking our order for the main, which in my case was chicken tikka with rice, asked did we want veg and potatoes or chips and salad, this was clearly designated as coming with the main. I asked for veg, it was noted by the waiter as veg plus potatoes. We weren't asked what we wanted to drink so my partner had to get up and go to the bar where he was invisible. He finally got served without much enthusiasm by the man behind the bar. The mains arrived, mine had the chicken without the rice but with veg and revolting looking potatoes. On pointing out that it came with rice I was told that wasn't the case as I had chosen veg. They were wrong. The waiter went to sort it out, my partner's meal was taken back and kept hot, and came back hot, my came back with the rice, the chicken which was now cold and just the veg, the sorry looking potatoes had gone. I hate cold food but the chicken tikka was so vile it didn't matter. My partner had gammon with pineapple and poached egg, the gammon was the thinnest slice that could be cut, the pineapple wasn't cored or griddled, the poached egg hadn't been drained so the cooking liquid was also on the plate, and the veg in both our cases was clearly from frozen and soggy. No one came to ask us how our food was, and when we paid the £44 the following morning for this revolting meal it was taken without again asking us how our stay was. Had they asked I would have told them it was ruined. I feel it wasn't worth the money, I tresent the expense, and I want a refund and apology. I doubt I'll get it. Anyone having a wedding there with such poor cuisine and service would have their day blighted.

Maggie L

29/07/2016
,
Kingsteignton, United Kingdom

4

« Out in the Wilds »

Just returned from a 5 day break at the Shap Wells, a good hotel in beautiful surroundings and pretty remote. If you are after peace and quiet this is the place to be. Stayed in room 15 which although was over the front of the building was very quiet with the added bonus of being on the corner and having 2 opposite windows that gave a nice breeze on a hot day. The hotel was always spotlessly clean throughout and decorated very tastefully, and as it is such an old building has many squeaky floorboards, so not possible to creep to the bathroom in the night without waking your partner! The dining room is light and pleasant and the staff helpful.. There was a good choice of food which was well presented. Waiter service for dinner and self for breakfast. My only criticisms are the lack of "bread" choice at breakfast, only sliced bread, brown or white, tipped on the table next to the toaster and no marmalade. Dinner was good until Wednesday evening when they do a so called "carvery", the system needs some serious tweaking. The dining room was in absolute chaos with 100+ people all trying to get to the server, the queue next to our table was horrendous with people hanging over us while we triad to eat our meal. The starters and desserts were ok but the main course was awful , 2 lads "carving" the meat with what appeared to be blunt knives, and possibly their first attempt and then another putting the cold veg etc onto the plates. People were standing about for 20 minutes or more just waiting to be served. My advice would be to have a good lunch and just a starter and sweet in the evening. It was a shame because the meals on the other evenings was always good. Apart from the last evening the hotel is well worth visiting, you will be made very welcome. A visit up to see the red squirrels is a must, best time seemed to be about 8-30am when they have been fed.

allhilltop

27/07/2016
,
Shrewsbury, United Kingdom

4

« Great stay »

Stayed For Just One Night ( 24/07/16) On A Coach Tour With GB Tours Staff Very Friendly & A Porterage Service Our Room No 62 Was A Little On The Small Side But Clean The Sunday Evening Meal Was Really Nice & Breakfast Next Morning First Class Hot & Well Cooked But With The Usual Minus Point Of Been Kept Under Heating Lights But Service Very Good One Thing In Favor Of This Hotel Were The Bar Prices Draught Bitter £2.80 & A Large Islay Malt £6.30 Most Hotel Bars Are A Rip Off But Could Afford A Good Night With Friends Here That been Said You Do need A Good Sat Nav To find This Little Hidden Gem Would Stay Again Anytime Well Done Best Western

joannbrowne1

26/07/2016
,
Dublin, Ireland

4

« Was there on a tour of the Lake District »

People were friendly very helpful meals were quite good never have to wait long to be served ,rooms a bit old fashioned could hear people walked in their rooms & moved but was ok about as I not a good sleeper anyway on the whole enjoyed my four days stay there

Philip M

26/07/2016
,
Inverurie, United Kingdom

4

« Very enjoyable break »

My wife and I enjoyed a very nice 2 night break here. The hotel sits in a little oasis amongst the hills and has a wonderful location. The room was large, clean and very nicely decorated. It was a little hot at night and we found it a little difficult to get to sleep the first night however it seemed cooler on the second night and we slept well, hearing no noise from the wedding reception going on, until a false fire alarm went off at 5:30 am. This was unfortunate and only slightly affected our appreciation of the hotel. We stayed on a Dinner B&B basis, the evening food was more than adequate and the breakfast superb. The staff were very polite and professional and I must say the bar staff coped admirably with the demands of a wedding as well as the other residents. We thought it was a lovely hotel and would not hesitate to recommend. We hope we will return at some point in the future.

Sharon W

26/07/2016
,
Manchester, England, United Kingdom

5

« Wedding »

Wow what can I say, me and my husband held our wedding reception here 25th June 2016, from start to finish the staff couldn't have done anymore for us or our guests, we had a 3 courses meal soup or melon, pork or turkey, profiteroles or pavlova all were amazing no complaints they even catered for our 4 vegetarians, the night buffet was lovely. Our room was lovely with a 4 poster bed in. We will be back!!!
Thank you to all that helped make our wedding day so special.

Matt1708

26/07/2016
,
Liverpool, United Kingdom

3

« Disappointing hotel »

I booked this hotel last minute for a quite break.
we checked in and was allocated room 4, when we went into our room where we was greeted by a window bay full of flies and midges. We was then kindly changed rooms to again be greeted by the same a window bay full of insects, this is due to a stream that runs along next to the hotel.
I spoke with the manager on shift who was extremely polite and helpful, who changed rooms for us again to a room away from the main building. Unfortunately we had the worse nights sleep in this room due to the noise levels, AVOID staying away from the main hotel.
I spoke with the general manager regarding my stay and he was again helpful and polite offering us a good will gesture for are unpleasant stay. The management staff can not be faulted and was extremely accommodating and helpful so i must thank them.
The hotel itself is located in the countryside with stunning surroundings. The hotel bar food was very tasty and generous portion sizes. There is also a games room with a snooker table and table tennis.

niamhrose9881

26/07/2016

3

« Gone downhill »

We used to come here a lot for the Sunday carvery, but after our most recent trip I don't think we will be back. The food wasn't up to scratch in our opinion and the pork tasted odd, the apple sauce was odd tasting too. The starters were odd with onion in the prawns the list goes on. We won't be back.

ctracycam

26/07/2016

4

« Family break »

Stayed here for two nights on a groupon deal. Amazing location with stunning g views. A little dated but still grand with great service. We had dinner included in our deal which was lovely. We used hotel ad a base for exploring the area which was lovely and would definitely return.

mrsb88

25/07/2016
,
newcastle

2

« Disappointing food and in need of updating »

Having stayed here several times, we didn't hesitate to choose again, unfortunately we did not experience the quality we had previously. Paid for dinner, bed and breakfast. The room was nice enough, clean and the bathroom recently refurbished. The thermostat for the shower/bath didn't work and the water was extremely hot advised reception and was advised to turn the 'thingy'. Dinner was not upto the usual standard we have had for the last 4 years. My hot pudding was cold and although the waitress offered to change it I declined. The roast dinner served wouldn't have filled a child. There was a wedding on and I'm not sure if this is the reason the food was not as nice as we have had in the past. We came with friends who had never been before and was embarassed to have recommended it. fire alarm went off at 5.30am by accident but no apologies from any of the staff. Next year we will be off somewhere else.

Grahamspost

25/07/2016
,
Wakefield, United Kingdom

4

« Wonderful Hotel until 5.30 a.m. Red Squirrels an incredible bonus »

The room (108) was wonderful, very clean, and modern. Beds (Twin) very comfy. Room was larger than expected, en-suite with shower over bath was excellent.
It was a warm night,so I left the window open, big mistake! Our room, along with a good few more, look out over the kitchen roof. So at 5.30 a.m. the kitchen extractor fans fired up, close to our window. Good job we retired early.
Without the noisy fans, this hotel would be a 5 star plus because the staff, the breakfast buffet,the room, and the red Squirrels in the local woods were far beyond anything I expected. I would visit again, but only in a quieter room.

molyneauxtracey

18/07/2016
,
Crewe, United Kingdom

5

« Fantastic Birthday Weekend!!! »

Just returned from a weekend at Shap Wells to celebrate my Dad's 80th birthday. Our group of 23 has an absolutely wonderful time. The staff could not of been more helpful, polite and organised. So friendly, nothing was too much trouble. The rooms were all spotlessly clean. Dined both nights and the food was exceptional. Breakfast lovely and plentiful. Thank you all for making my Dad's special birthday such a great success.

Angela K

17/07/2016
,
Taunton, United Kingdom

4

« Unusual victorian bath in room »

Unfortunately our room was over the kitchen and was very warm and the window was broken. It was fixed after a fashion but we couldn't open it very far also we didn't have a shower just this enormous bath in which we could have had a swim. The food was good and the staff were friendly and efficient except when they ran out of tea bags! One really good point is the grounds and the fact you get to see re squirrels.

Dave J

17/07/2016
,
Wakefield, United Kingdom

5

« Coast to coast Shap »

I was on my way across the country, on the Coast to Coast Walk. Weather conditions through the Lake District were horrendous so I decided to take a break from camping and stay in a Hotel for a night. My wife booked me a hotel from home, the Shap Wells.
When I arrived in Shap at around 2100 hrs I found to my horror the the Hotel was some 4 miles out of the village. This is not what you want to here after a 25 mile trek. I phoned reception for directions and the reception put me on to a manager called Steve.
Steve obviously realised my plight without being ask offered to come and pick me up. This is the kind of customer service that make you feel like you're special . So thanks Steve and Best Western. A great 1 night stay, lovely hotel.

JoshuaLHamilton

16/07/2016
,
Borehamwood, United Kingdom

4

« Surprisingly better than expected! »

We stayed there with our 2 dogs in the "Old Bath House" annexe, which we had read mixed reviews about regarding cleanliness of the rooms and poor sound proofing. I mentioned my partner suffers with dust allergies to reception, and the room was kept spotless. It was vacuumed and dusted daily, bathroom cleaned thoroughly, bed made, fresh towels put in, and rubbish removed, all on a daily basis. Bed was very comfortable, and there was no noise problem. Yes could here people walking about faintly, but nothing to complain about.
Staff were friendly and helpful, but it was Teresa who organises breakfast that stood out for us, she was friendly from the start, and when we mentioned we were interested in seeing the red squirrels known for being on the hotel grounds, she took time to explain the best spots to see them and even went and got some feed from out the back so we could feed them ourselves! She is a very warm and friendly person , who seemed to genuinely care about our stay, going out of her way to let us have a table by the window, as I had requested this on day one. Reception staff were also helpful. Only disappointing factors was the bar food was very average and we did complain about a top slice of bread being stale, in fairness the barman then reduced it to half price, décor very outdated, and games room consists of a pool table that doesn't work properly, although have to put 50p in for a game, broken net on table tennis, snooker table could do with a face lift, and that is the games room! The grounds are lovely with woodlands and fields for plenty of walking. This hotel has the potential to easily be 4 star if décor and meals were brought up to date. Even the house keeper explained the new management cuts to things like toilet paper cheapened the over all experience.

dipdatdog

14/07/2016
,
cheshire

4

« A 2 day break from our Daughters »

It's in the middle of no where however what a little gem. Now I write this not as a critic
but as very happy to have stayed here so I'm not going to go on about decor etc..........the room was very nice and clean with a good view the food was good with a varied choice.....staff were very friendly and so helpful........Zara in the restaurant and Steve behind the bar are worthy of a mention. The hotel is set in 30 acres of countryside and at 8:30 in the morning you can watch the red Squirrels being fed. Easy access from the hotel to Windermere about 25 miles away. Downside in summer some of the rooms are quite hot so air conditioning would not be amiss. Over all a good experience.

deedeeSW

14/07/2016
,
south west

3

« good basic coach hotel »

We stayed at the Shap Wells Hotel as part of a coach tour of the lake District. It is really a coach hotel, whilst we were there there were 4 coaches in with the resultant chaos in the dining room etc. I wouldnt stay here as an independant traveller as it is very isolated and a long way to get anywhere a car is essential.
The lounge areas were very good large and spacious and comfortable. The bar was not always manned as I think they may have been understaffed. The dining room was more like a canteen with food to match. It was very! hot especially if you are seated at the back. There was supposed to be evening entertainment but it was two nights of the same female singer who was ok and one night it was a magician?? who came round the tables. He must have been the oldest magician in the world no kidding!
Because we were very lucky with the weather we wanted to sit outside, there is some comfortable outdoor furniture but you are eaten alive by the midges so take some repellant. it is very quiet and peaceful here with a little walk up the hill and a nice stream just by the Hotel.
The bedrooms were clean and beds very comfortable but very basic. They were so hot and no way to cool down. Take your own tea bags etc. Actually if you ask they will give you more and also at the bar they will give you fresh milk which I thought very good.
The average age staying here is probably over 60 which was fine as everyone was so friendly.
The reception staff were exceptionally helpful, it was my 70th birthday whilst I was there and my friends rang them to arrange flowers and prosecco and a card and they actually went out of their way to arrange it and put it in my room. The wine was in a bucket with ice and glasses superb!!
It is what it is a basic hotel, with basic food, nice staff and I had a good time. I wouldnt stay here as an independant travellor but as part of a coach tour it was fine.

gerald b

12/07/2016
,
Wolverhampton, United Kingdom

4

« Try it »

Have written many reviews from places we have stayed at and visited, on our recent trip we stayed at the Shap Wells and found our stay very pleasant. Hotel is situated down a track away from the road this makes your stay peaceful, close to the hotel runs small rivers that cascade down over the rocks beautiful to hear the sounds. Now the hotel, room very clean and decorated, facilities in room very good, the hotel is very clean it's carpets and decorated to a good standard, dining area well located and very clean, lounge areas clean and well furnished. Staff were very polite and very helpful both at reception and dining areas. Evening meal was well cooked and plentiful and breakfast was self service again well cooked and a good variety to choose from. Would I recommend this hotel, yes I would we had no complaints at all. People will always differ with their comments but I can only write what I believe to be an accurate review during our stay at Shap Wells, so to conclude this review why not give it a try and see for yourself.

richardetherington

10/07/2016
,
Bridlington, United Kingdom

2

« not impressed »

this hotel realy is in the middle of nowhere,not that this is entirely a disadvantage.this is a very busy hotel!!!,and I do not understand why. The food is basic to poor,the staff are in the most part pleasant but poorly trained and some are not good at understanding english. The hotel itself is fairly basic but not the worst we have stayed in. MAYBE ITS JUST US !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

sarahs360746

08/07/2016
,
Worcester, United Kingdom

4

« Hidden gem! »

After a slightly nervous approach (it's 3 miles out of town and a mile down a track) we loved the hotel. We had a lovely family room and enjoyed a good nights sleep and a great breakfast. Great value in a refurbished hotel. The bathrooms were particularly nice.
The staff were friendly and helpful.

williamfairweath2016

07/07/2016
,
Bonnyrigg, United Kingdom

4

« Break away to visit the Lake District »

Just back from a 3 day break to this hotel with my sister and brother-in-law and can only say that we all enjoyed it very much. The room we had was a twin room and was spotlessly clean and very comfortable. The bar staff and restaurant staff made us so welcome and were so pleasant. Good choice of food for evening meal and a buffet style breakfast which was also very good.
The staff on reception were very helpful and answered all our questions.
There are a lot of lovely walks around the hotel, especially if you want to see the red squirrels.
Don't listen to all the bad reviews as this hotel for us was well worth the money and we wouldn't hesitate to visit again.

hottchic

07/07/2016
,
brittain

4

« great hotel »

i dont know why people leave bad reviews about this hotel we have just came home from a 4day stay there and all I can say is staff were all lovely food was great and our room was spotless.we had a lovely stay there thankyou to all the staff who made our stay enjoyable

adamthomson04

04/07/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

5

« Hotel booked for a single night during a coast to coast cycle event »

I booked the Best Western Shap hotel as it was the closest available hotel to the campsite of the event I was participating in. I turned up at the hotel with my friend around 20:45 covered in mud, wet and tiredly carrying our bags. There was a prom on so you can imagine it was slightly busy (understatement). The manager (I assume) noticed us first and before getting a room asked if we had eaten, he was obviously aware of what we had gone through and knew we would need food. The kitchen was due to close soon and he said any problems let him know.
We got our room, I booked a twin but was given a double, this was quickly rectified with reception who got us a twin room. The manage saw us again and once again told us not to worry about food, he'd keep the kitchen open.
Once sorted in our room we went straight to the bar for food, the manager ensured that the food order went through and kept checking back on us to make sure we were ok. We really couldn't of asked for more than what he offered, he constantly kept checking on us and obviously had a high attention to detail realising we needed sustenance before bed despite him having a prom on.
Room was pleasant, staff were excellent and there was even breakfast laid out for us at 6am as we started our day 2 of the event at 7. Really couldn't ask for more.
Thank you to all staff involved, you made an otherwise tough and tiresome day very easy.

Nicola T

02/07/2016
,
Napton-on-the-Hill, United Kingdom

4

« 3 nights break before travelling on to Scotland »

Room was clean, warm, well appointed. Only problem we had was that the door was so heavy to open, know it has to be a fire door but....
Breakfast is slightly different to what we normally have but understand with the amount of people to cater for , it is the best way but.... bacon was like shoe leather one morning!
Our first morning, breakfast was very organised and we were shown to our table and tea was brought out and staff helpful. Other mornings staff not so helpful, we had to wait for tea and everything seemed chaotic. Maybe it's just we are used to smaller hotels? It will not put us off coming again, we did enjoy our stay and bar meals are tasty. Bar staff very friendly. We didn't eat in Restaurant but maybe next time?
Squirrels an added bonus! Delightful!

Claire R

02/07/2016
,
Monkleigh, null, United Kingdom

1

« Terrible food, tiny rooms, overpriced! »

I just don't know where to start, I would not stay here unless you absolutely have too!
It was the closest hotel by far to an event we were taking part in so had no choice!
The evening meal was laughable, absolutely terrible, £21.95 for 3 courses was the only option on the very limited basic menu. We couldn't face 3 courses but they still tried to charge us for all 3 in the morning!
Rooms were really small despite paying £93 for B+B
Requested on booking, along with 12 others, an early continental breakfast due to early event start time, nothing was said about it when booking several months ago but come the morning there was no breakfast!
If we had paid £50 I wouldn't be so scathing but for the price this hotel was an absolute embarrassment to itself and a complete let down to the best Western name!

Pushy2016

02/07/2016
,
Plymouth, United Kingdom

3

« Terrible service »

It wasn't enough that we had to wait 20minutes before our order was taken, but then to wait 30minutes before the meal was served, only to have 2 small potatoes, enough veg to cover a soup spoon and a dried up piece of meat. Due to not enough desserts a small piece of cheesecake was cut in half, it was the thickness of a finger. Breakfast was the same - not enough fried egg; scrambled eggs, beans and porridge late in being put out. Then there was no butter for the toast! The restaurant manager was ignorant and dismissive of customers complaints.
The lift only goes to some rooms - others have to be reached by climbing more stairs; not a place to visit if you have any walking difficulties.
Most of the staff don't speak English.

geordieboy_9

02/07/2016
,
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

1

« Could harm your health »

There was no heating on in the rooms when we arrived and they were very cold, there was an electric heater on the wall which I put on straight away, but these are limited to 2 hours use, so by the time we returned from dinner the rooms were cold again. I had mentioned to reception that the rooms were cold but nothing seemed to have been done, in fact the heater in my room no longer worked.
My mother is 85 and spent a very misarable night. In the morning I asked if I could have a portable heater for my room and one did duly arrive, however this was last PAT tested in 2009.
I complained to the head office of Best Western Hotels who say the hotels are individualy owned, they did contact the Shap Wells Hotel, but to no satisfactory conclusion.
I was offered a £25 voucher to use in any Best western Hotel, but I refused as I never intend to use one of there hotels ever again.
Further more the most of there rooms have a bath with a wall mounted shower head, which you can not remove from the wall, so hard if you just want to wash your hair, and difficult to get into for people with mobility issues.
In case you think I'm just one of those people who is never happy, check out my past reviews and you will see that I rarely give bad ones.

Coz2013

29/06/2016
,
Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom

3

« Poor service »

We have just returned from a one night stay at the Shap Wells Hotel as we were attending a near by wedding. The check In Was swift and the room was very pleasant, however we went down to ask for some food as we were not sure when we would next eat and we were told that due to a wedding at the hotel they could not serve us any food at the time of asking and we had to wait until the kitchen said it was possible. We waited for around 15 minutes and then the waitress came and informed us that the kitchen had given the go ahead but despite a large choice of the menus onthe table we could only order soup and a sandwich. We chose our order and when it came the soup was barely half a bowl of very Luke warm soup. The soup tasted like a packet soup and was certainly not the best I had ever tasted. We had to order drinks from a phone on the back bar as it was not manned due to the wedding and we felt like we were a hindereance to them rather that guests. The breakfast was very tasty and there was a good variety of food to choose from. I feel the hotel need to put on extra staff when they host a wedding so they can look after their other paying guests.

James M

27/06/2016
,
Basildon, United Kingdom

4

« What a gem »

Having a senior moment we arrived 2 days before our actual booking.
Although hotel was full, the reception staff found us a room for which we were very grateful. Hotel was lovely, exactly the type of place that we were looking for. Room was large, comfortable, clean and welcoming. Breakfast and food acceptable. All staff were very friendly and helpful. With 2 small dogs, there were plenty of local walks to do with red squirrels everywhere. location being just off the M6 is ideally suited for the lakes, Hadrian's wall and borders. All within an hours drive. We would like to thank all the staff for making us welcome and we have already booked to go back.

Paul C

26/06/2016
,
Chorley, United Kingdom

4

« Part Of A Weekend Away »

Friday 23rd June 2016
As our son was away camping in the lakes ,we decided we would have the weekend away also
He was also camping with the adventure scouts with his sister at Great Tower adjacent Windermere
The hotel was booked as part of a long ago Christmas gift ,but what a surprise when we arrived
Tucked away in a valley at Shap is a beautiful hotel that is of the beaten track.Having arrived around 7.30pm ,we were shown to our room on the second floor
Although relatively smal it had everything we needed and was clean and well presented
We unpacked a little and then went down for our pre booked meal in the hotels restaurant and what a surprise
The restaurant was large and well decorated and over looking the hillside and stream as for the food ,absolutely brilliant along with the staff who saw to our ever need.Had to be careful we didn't eat to much and spoil the full English in the morning ,which although was self service was equally as good as the food the night before .One of the best things was when checked out with nothing to pay .Will definitely be back

WolfyTrish

25/06/2016
,
Norwich, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely, secluded hotel »

The only thing that lets this hotel down is cleanliness. Our room wasn't cleaned the best - random human hair/pet hair everywhere and sticky windowsills. Twice we were directed to a table by a window in the restaurant which was filthy and covered with deceased files. I complained the first evening and the next morning. The second morning the flies had been removed - I hope they include this cleaning regime daily as it was really off putting trying to keep my breakfast down looking at dead flies.
On a positive point the food was lovely - breakfast was choice of cereal, ham, cheese, yoghurt, fresh fruit - prunes, grapefruit, juices, iced water, toast, jam, marmalade, croissants, pain au chocolat. Fry up consisted of bacon, sausages, tomatoes, fried bread, black pudding, fried egg, scrambled egg and baked beans. Would have liked mushrooms as a choice.
It's nice they accept dogs but it would be nice to have been given a room that hadn't previously had an animal in.
Walking around the outside - some of the rooms were used for storage- it would have been nice to have those windows blacked out as it looks messy - toilet rolls stacked in a window.

Janet C

23/06/2016
,
Northumberland, United Kingdom

5

« An enjoyable stay! »

Stayed here for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast deal. Lovely quaint hotel in a secluded location. Our room was clean, spacious,quiet and had a modern bathroom which looked like it had recently been refurbished. We could see the M6 in the distance from our bedroom window but no traffic noise could be heard at all, even with the window open. Had a great nights sleep as it was very quiet and peaceful. The buffet style breakfast was comprehensive with both hot and cold choices and was very enjoyable. Staff were pleasant and attentive. Nearby Shap village has a Co-Op, chip shop/restaurant and a few pubs. Penrith and Kendal are 15 miles away, giving access to both North and South Lakes. We would definitely like to have a return visit and would recommend to others who are looking for a quiet hotel in a lovely, secluded location.

Sabreman80

22/06/2016
,
Garstang, United Kingdom

2

« Speechless ineptitude. »

I visited this hotel/restaurant a few days ago for the Sunday buffet/carvery. I rang about 10.0 a.m. and was told that as they were very busy they could only offer a 1.30 p.m. reservation which I and my companion accepted. Coincidentally, she had both worked there and resided in staff quarters some time ago.
When we arrived at the prescribed time I went to the bar area and announced our presence. We were told to take a seat by a truculent member of the bar staff, order a drink, and that a member of staff from the dining room would come and see to us. The bar is directly opposite the opening to the dining room and we sat between the two. Just over a quarter of an hour later we were still awaiting attention and so I went and stood in the dining room and found that there was no member of staff visible and yet there were probably forty-odd diners present. There was absolutely oodles of space as the room is huge and a large section at the far side from me had obviously not been put into use.
After a few minutes a female member of staff came out of the kitchen at my far left and came when I attracted her attention. It then transpired that my reservation was not recorded and from the fuss you would have thought that it would be impossible for us to be found a table from the dozens of empty ones I was looking at. I pointed out that there was a ready-set table for two available a few paces away and we were duly seated.
The overall impression of the buffet did not inspire confidence as it was obvious that it had taken a bit of a hammering in the previous couple of hours. The starters were adequate but the carvery was a disaster. Firstly, the plates were just piled on the serving table and were stone cold. Secondly, the two meats on offer (beef and pork) were lying exposed to the drying heat and the first slice of each should have been discarded. There was no-one in attendance nor indeed in the whole dining room but a lady member of staff eventually emerged from the bar and I attracted her attention to our presence and she secured a ?chef' from the kitchen.
The Yorkshire puddings had long since given up the will to live and we expedited their demise by drowning in gravy. The vegetables were barely warm but we made 'do' as we were ravenous by this time. And so to the puddings!! A previous reviewer has drawn attention to the problems experienced by a later dining time and it was bob-on. It looked like a disaster area. There was a sole broken-off corner of a cream-cracker to denote where the cheese and biscuits had once been. Other plates had inedible remnants of something or other on them and the whole lot looked un-appetising. We managed to find something to our liking and these turned out to be quite pleasant.
The coffee area in the bar looked like a bomb-site. The hot jugs should have been placed on their named mats but not one was in its correct place. We eventually found what we wanted by trial and error. Most unsatisfactory.
The overall experience was far from positive and neither of us will be returning. This is a significant management and supervision problem. I dine out on a very regular basis (the number of reviews by me is only a fraction of my experiences) and I know what is needed. In this case proper training, supervision AND, particularly, correct staffing levels by enthusiastic workers. I tip good service generously but obviously left nothing on this occasion.

verobeach2

22/06/2016
,
Ripon, United Kingdom

4

« Seems remote, but well worth a visit. »

Stayed over a weekend whilst the hotel was full and didn't encounter any problems. Room was large, well maintained and very clean. Comfortable super king bed and modernised bathroom (no shaver point in our room). Ate in the bar area, drink prices were reasonable and food hot and tasty. Breakfast was served in the restaurant -buffet style and again hot, tasty and plentiful, even provided haddock or kippers. Grounds are large with plenty of short walks and red squirrels. Easy drive to Kendal or Penrith.
No traffic noise and very relaxing. Would visit again, the staff are friendly and helpful.
Many thanks

Vicky C

19/06/2016

3

« Very dog friendly but dated. »

Lovely rural location and grounds with endless walks from the door. Great location for walkers and dog owners. Hotel was clean but dated. Perfectly adequate for our one night stop over. Lots of elderly tour groups. Buffet breakfast was fine but staff were stretched to serve tea/coffee and seat people. Would visit again for the location/surroundings.

mag1

15/06/2016
,
Derby, United Kingdom

3

« Red Squirrels »

The hotel is quite isolated, a mile from the road.The room was large and recently refurbished, let down by the thin, small bath towels. Breakfast was average. Worth visiting for the opportunity to see and photograph the red squirrels in the grounds.

ALL376

15/06/2016
,
Worcester, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely place to stay »

We only stayed one night but it was comfy and cosy,it's in a beautiful setting lots of walking ,but it rained all evening so ew couldn't go out as we didn't have suitable clothes or shoes.wedid manage a short walk in the morning and saw the red squirrels would like to have stopped longer but we're on coach trip

Polly104

14/06/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

5

« Simply stunning! »

A fantastic secluded Hotel that is situated by a picturesque river.
Red squirrels are regular visitors to the grounds we saw them 4 times from the outside seating area without having to hunt for them. Wild life all around and breath taking looking at birds and fish watching on the river.
We had our first stay here and this is our first visit to the Lake District. Staff very accommodating, room was fantastic with a huge bed in a lovely room over looking the river. Although the river was loud due to weather it was half of its appeal. Breakfast, buffet style cooked to perfection and good quality. Lunch menu had sandwiches which we good quality too and tasty.
We also enjoyed a lovely meal on one of the evenings in the restaurant. Receptionist, bar staff, waitresses and cleaners very professional and efficient as well as friendly.
If you are looking to get away from it all and have a peaceful break this is the place for you. From beginner half hour walks to much harder ones mapped out for you.
We also enjoyed local fish and chips, trip to local castle, bird sanctuary and boat trip. We will defiantly be back. Excellent as 3 star is rating.

Stuart - Caroli... S

13/06/2016
,
Broadstairs, United Kingdom

5

« An ideal place to stop over en-route to Scotland »

A large, but friendly hotel in a rural setting just off the M6. Set in picturesque grounds and surrounded by high moorland. Comfortable rooms, some dog-friendly and accessible. Staff are generally friendly and helpful, although its popularity with coach parties sometimes means that service is slow. Good food and a generous buffet breakfast. Had to ask twice for tea and coffee though.

HannahErrin

13/06/2016
,
Penrith, United Kingdom

3

« Super Sunady Roast »

Myself and my family went to the Shap Wells hotel for Sunday lunch and had reserved a table for 1pm. The staff were friendly and generally efficient. The food was good - nothing more but I'd definitely eat there again. I liked the buffet style as there was something for everyone and you could clearly see all the veg/meat etc that you had to chose from. I would advise eating at around 12-1pm as any time after that, there is not a great range to chose from in the desert department.
The one negative about this meal was that in the bar and in the entrance to the restaraunt area there were 100's of flies - that is no exaggeration. I wasn't too put off by them as a member of my party works in Pest Control and I am used to the sight of Blue Bottle flies however, I still think it slightly unacceptable in a highly rated hotel. The weather was extremely warm and the hotel is around farm land so I understand that it must be difficult to keep insects under control!

How remote is this place !! Surrounded by beautiful scenery, woodland walks and red squirrel,the Shap wells has a lot too offer, our room was huge 3 single beds and everything you need in the room, and although clean, the beds could do with valences on so you don't see the stained divan bases, bathroom again clean , but could do with a bit of modernisation ( curtains stained with foundation marks) paint pealing from around sink ..the bar was well stocked and prices are good ,didn't use the restaurant but ate from the bar menu and food was hot and fresh and tasted great ...self serve breakfast .. Everything you could want again Hot and fresh and very tasty ... Only down side was wedding party standing right in doorway smoking which is not too pleasant when you arrive .. Also our room overlooked the courtyard so we were woken up by the staff emptying the bottle bin at 12.45 am ...other than that a nice hotel

KarenCountyDurham

12/06/2016
,
County Durham

4

« Squirrels to watch »

We stayed at the Shap Wells for the second time this year, last time we stayed it was March and it was solovely we wanted to visit in the summer time. Again we had the dogs with us so we were in the Bath House, a lovely room, quite small but very clean and fresh. The bathroom was nice and had a large walk in shower,lots of hot water at all times. Fluffy towels and clean quality bedding on a large comfy bed. The rooms have their own electric heaters so you can be warm whenever you want. The evening meal was included, three courses, all very nice, drinks slightly more expensive than a pub but not too expensive. Breakfast was buffet style and very nice although I do prefer a fresh fruit salad at breakfast. The porridge was lovely and the fresh cream was a nice addition! Staff were pleasant and friendly and will give helpful advice about the best times to see the squirrels which are worth looking out for. The Bath House is ideal if you are taking a dog as the squirrel walk into the woods is next to the Bath House,a bin for poo bags is provided too. There is a lounge/bar where you can sit with your dog and there is a tv in the lounge too. I would recommend this hotel as it is situated close to the Lake District and great value for money, we hope to visit again later this year.

Pennywise2

06/06/2016

3

« Disappointing stay »

This was our second visit to Shap Wells booked as a birthday treat for myself and my husband. The staff and the food were still excellent but the place was not as relaxing this time as it was very busy as a couple of coach trips were there and we felt we didn't receive the same attention as the coach guests. We also had a couple of problems one being we had no hot water for the three days we were there except for one evening for about an hour which didn't seem to concern them as their excuse was it's a bank holiday weekend which made it difficult to get the part needed. We were in room 40 which was a nice room with lovely views but the shower was in an extremely awkward position which makes it difficult to stand up in but my husband had a go while the water was hot but not very successfully as he fell when the bath mat slipped because of the position of the shower. We reported this as my husband was bruised and bleeding and the manager Graham was very sympathetic and went to look at it with my husband and said he would look into this as he had concerns about other guests. I would recommend anyone in room 40 to take care when using the shower let's hope they manage to do something about this as its a lovely room. The hotel has a small dining room and I think when there are a few coach trips they should use this room for other guests as it gets noisy and is far from relaxing in the large dining room. We left the hotel bruised and shocked. We were really disappointed with our stay this time. The three stars are for the staff the food and Graham.

Rose B

05/06/2016

3

« Don't dine here if they have a wedding or private function on »

My sister and I joined our Australian cousins for dinner 28 May, they were staying at the hotel on their way to the airport to return home. The dining room was seperated from the wedding party by curtains, so when the disco started the noise was so loud we could'nt hear each other speak. My cousin complained to the waiting staff and was told that as it was a private party nothing could be done, they fetched the duty manager who was totally ineffectual, may be he was overwhelmed by the noise as well as the number of diners waiting to complain. He was informed that our dinner would not be paid for. We adjourned to the lounge area which proved to be quieter, we were served sweet in the lounge.Several other diners removed to the lounge to finish their meal. This whole debarcle could have been prevented had all non wedding diners been advised re the level of volume and offered the opportunity of dining in the lounge. The food was reasonably good and there was a variety to choose from. But our plan to have one final gossip while we could was ruined. It was only the second time we had been able to get together!

shirleynixon1971

02/06/2016
,
Haltwhistle, United Kingdom

3

« A mixed bag »

I visited this hotel on sat for a wedding I arrived at the venue which was close to the m6 and easy to find but situated in a most beautiful surrounding.i had booked my room (a single ) months ago I was told at the time that my room could not be guaranteed to be ready before 3pm but a room would be made available to get ready for the wedding I arrived at 1.30 ok so the room wasn't ready but I wasn't given a room in which to change and get ready so it was looking like I was going to have to change in the public area toilets! Luckily for me another wedding guest who had stayed on the Friday evening realised and quickly ushered me to their room where I had to be extremely quick as the brides dress was in the room and the bride was to get ready there which was hardly ideal for me or the bride.i then went down to the bar area and decided to have a drink the bar was spacious with plenty of choice so a glass of fizz was ordered ( it came in an ordinary wine glass and not a flute ) then for the ceremony which was held in a lovely room beautifully decorated.the photos were taken across the car park over the cattle grid it was extremely picturesque helped of course by lovely weather.the time was now around 4.30 pm so as we passed the reception desk I enquired about my room ( still not ready ) then came our wedding meal which was fine ( once the Yorkshire pudding was remembered ) I'm not sure what time the meal finished as we were all enjoying ourselves and chatting but I then asked again about my room ( still not ready ) but I asked if I could have a key anyway to save me coming back later and asking again I eventually got into my room after retrieving my case from upstairs and taking it into the courtyard building.well having seen the upstairs double room I was slightly disappointed to find the smallest room with what seemed like an extremely small single bed but I had dancing to do so I dumped the case and danced until gone 1am the two guys who sang were the best I have heard at a wedding and I believe they appear regularly at shap wells ( a huge positive ) the evening buffet was also very good.i returned to my room and flopped into my small bed where I fell asleep almost immediately only to be woken quite soon after by bottles being tipped into a bottle bin.the room was unbearably hot I tried to turn the radiator off but was unable to turn it.the bathroom was adequate but what let it down was the rather grotty shower curtain the shower was hot and powerful which was just what I needed after a night dancing and little sleep,I made a coffee and went for a walk up where I had spotted a red squirrel during the wedding photos 7.30 on a sunny Sunday morning it was beautiful there was only myself and one other hotel guest who was doing the same sadly the squirrels were still in bed.breakfast was good hot and plentiful ( I never found the coffee )would I return to shap wells? Yes but I would book in as a couple and pay the extra for a larger room as I thought the single rooms were too small and substandard.would I recommend to others ? Again only to couples.

why97

02/06/2016
,
Lincoln, United Kingdom

3

« Not what I expected from a Best Western.... but »

We were not disappointed with the location of this hotel, and from the outside the hotel is lovely.... but the room we were given, a twin, with child size beds (very narrow and very soft you thought you were in a water bed) not at all comfortable. Rubbish view over what I think was dining room/ kitchens judging from the smells. Sticky window sills and dirty light switches. I am sure all the rooms cant be like this, we were only there for one night.
The room its self was a good size, cant say the same of the bath towels, small and bit thread bare. I will stress we are of average size.
Could you also explain why they always fill up the rooms furthest from the main parts of the hotel regardless of guests age, it was quite a walk with lots of steps, so if booking bear this in mind, there is a lift to each floor but then still had steps.
Small tea cups, rubbish tea and not a biscuit in sight
The food and drinks are quite expensive so we ate out other than breakfast, which was good but nothing more, while waiting for eggs to appear the rest of food on plate went cold.
The staff were very nice.
Plenty of car parking and a lovely walk to see the red squirrels and other wild life, I would recommend the hotel to others for this alone.

566denise

31/05/2016
,
Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom

4

« just called for one night »

we stayed at shap wells hotel for one night on our way back from scotland our room was on the second floor with lovely views of the fields & stream also the sheep & lambs. the evening meal was lovely and piping hot. our bed was very comfortable & after a good nights sleep we had a good breakfast it was self service. would love to go back again for a longer stay

JillieStaffs

30/05/2016

5

« Once again lovely hotel lovely food »

Just returned from a one night stay at the Best western Shap Hotel. Once again lovely quite stay.Food just as good Room had a water view.Staff work very hard and made our stay very welcome. Will stay again as this is our third stay at this hotel.

Alan B

24/05/2016
,
Glenrothes, United Kingdom

4

« 2 night stay for work »

Was last here in December 2015.
Have stayed here over 40 times over the last 4 to 5 years and not a lot has changed.
Still a friendly welcome and all staff very helpful and pleasant.
Stayed in room 105 which I have stayed in before. Bathroom has been refurbished and to a good std see photos.
Meals good quality and reasonable price.
The wifi used to be very poor but gas now been upgraded and is now very good in the public areas still some black spots around the hotel. Sure this will be put right.
Hotel is only a couple of miles from the M6 and perfect for the businessman traveling between Scotland and England.

funkydunk

23/05/2016
,
Scotland

5

« Value for money »

We chose this hotel as they had an offer for dinner, bed and breakfast for £78 for two which we thought was exceptional value.After we booked it, we realised it was in the middle of nowhere and wondered what we had let ourselves in for.We needn't have worried as the hotel was excellent and the food first class.The hotel was very busy but it didn't seem to faze the excellent staff and there was even entertainment in the evening.And to round it all off, we went out first thing in the morning and saw plenty of red squirrels!

Barry V

22/05/2016
,
Durham, United Kingdom

3

« Entertaining »

We stayed 2 nights in a lovely room with a 4 poster bed
Each morning we were awoken by customers leaving for break fast as they were leaving on coaches this did not bother us to much as it was entertaining listening to people's comments on the hotel
The rooms are OK the bathrooms need a little attention
The real reason for calling this review as entertains was that we hadbreakfast and dinner on both nights
Getting coffee was eventful 4 times we asked
But on our second night the waitress was useless asked for potatoes and veg with our dinner we got chips and salad for 4 people
When it came to sweet we asked what the cheesecake was and the reply was she did not no what Flavour it was and you get what you get
Please note on a Sunday morning there is no hot water as a member of staff informed us it had been off the Sunday before as well suspect that as they don't get many guests on a Sunday Evening boiler is turned off for cylinder

michael c

21/05/2016
,
nuneaton

4

« Scotland Break »

Our last hotel on a week's touring of Scotland. We were a little apprehensive on arrival as there were 2 coaches in the car park (we had not realised it was normal useage of the hotel). However we thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Very elegant interior, particularly the dining room. The dining room is quite large, so even though there were 2 coach loads of guests it was not noisy. We hardly noticed they were there. The staff were very friendly, especially Pilar and Joachim. The menu had a limited choice, but what we had was cooked very well and tasted good. This hotel is off the beaten track, therefore in a very quiet location (they have red squirrels in the area), but in easy access of the Lake District.

DavidPontefract

19/05/2016
,
pontefract

4

« out of the way »

My wife and I recently stayed at the shap wells and really enjoyed our stay. If you are looking for an hotel as a base to stay and go out on the town then this is not the place for you [15 miles to the nearest town].However if all you want to do is relax for a couple of days this could be the place. A lot of the staff were new to the hotel but they could not do enough for us even when the fire alarm went off at 1 o'clock in the morning they were still very professional. As for the food you can choose between the restaurant or a meal in the bar we tried both and did not find fault with either.

WickersWorld50

18/05/2016
,
Farnborough, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely quiet location and good value »

This hotel is in a lovely remote location with scenic views. It is ideal if you want to get away from it all. The disadvantage is that it is used by large coach parties. Our room was great value and great views. The buffet breakfast was sometimes a little tired when came down mainly because of the large number of residents who came down early as part of coach party

stewrat222

18/05/2016
,
Oldham, United Kingdom

5

« Big in Every Way »

This hotel exceeds your expectations. The room was large and recently updated. The reception staff were quick and efficient. The food was excellent with a varied menu and very large portions. The restaurant staff were really good, Unlike most hotels that take in coach parties they separate the staff so the service for private customers is not affected. We stayed 4 nights and were speedily fed each night in spite of 100 coach customers eating at the same time. The best thing about the hotel is that it sits in its own nature reserve. Red squirrels abound and the bird life was great. I have never been so close to a great spotted woodpecker. I am already looking to find a time to visit again. Only bad point was the speed of wifi at busy times but the hotel was fully covered and had a lot of guests.

Sugglebunny

15/05/2016

4

« coach holiday and cold water »

The best western at shap wells what a let down our room
Was miles and lots of steps from the dinning room many of our party had no hot water what so ever and soon everyone had the same problem when asking a member of staff what was wrong
They all seemed to have a different tale to tell our party were there for 4 days and some people never had a wash without boiling the kettle first! The food while there was enough of it was not of a standard I was expecting it was often cold and the service was quite poor but the situation is lovely but this does not make up for poor food bad customer service I am quite sure I will not be going there any time in the near future

Lindsay K

14/05/2016

1

« The state of service »

We were looking for a quiet reasonable pace to stay off the M6 and we thought we found it. It is rural, sweet and by a river. The bar staff were friendly and we thought we hit the jackpot. However the rooms were dirty. See photos. The restaurant service was run by the kitchen for themselves. The chefs can get in cook and get out without considering their front of house staff. We asked for steak and a gap between our starter and mains and we got served well done steaks. We had ordered medium rare. The manager admitted this was not the first time service was like this and he did what he could by not charging for the food. The basic principles of a hotel were long forgotten. Shame. Could do better. All a bit tired and not good value for money.

Malcolm G

09/05/2016
,
Weybridge, United Kingdom

5

« Stopover from Scotland to the lakes »

Booked at short notice. Pleased by lovely setting. Staff very good in all departments.
Room ok but perhaps a little bit tired. Shower over bath very narrow. Rest of hotel
very high standard. Food very good and staff quick and helpful.
Fire alarm in middle of night a pain but hotel staff very good at keeping everyone's good humour.
Good value

Mr Ken T

09/05/2016
,
Blackpool, United Kingdom

4

« Didn't see the Reds!! »

After booking a discounted room (£92.70 D.B+B) I was surprised to be charged £121.70 at reception.I expressed my surprise but agreed to 'go with it'--- too tired to argue!
After taking occupation of the room (17) and finding it a bit small,I then checked my booking form; and found that that form quite definatly showed £92.70 A call to reception (the same person who had booked me in) got an apology and the promise of a discounted receipt.Unfortunaly at this stage I didn't mention the size of the room,so decided that we would make the best of the somewhat crowded space.My wife and I get on well together!
The room on the first floor WAS quite small,but everything in it worked well,and apart from having to run-around in the shower in order to get wet OKay!! A wide opening window gave plenty of access to the nearby woods and excelent birdsong.
This hotel is about a mile down a private road from the A6 just a couple of miles from the village of Shap and in many ways is quite remote;it cannot be seen from the main road and is far enough away to be untroubled by the M6. Indeed trees and a babbling brook are the main nature interests,the hotel makes much emphasis on the Squirrel possibilities which it apparently feeds and sells photographs of, but we didn't see any and didn't buy any photographs. It should be generally understood that Red Squirels are more sensitive to humans than the grey variety.( we regularly see greys in our garden near the coast!)
The room served its purpose and was clean and comfortable and after a couple of g+t's a decent bottle of Red accompanied a well cooked and served dinner--in fact we were much impressed by the large servings of starters,main course and deserts ,well served and presented by the relatively young staff.There had been a coach party occupying some of rooms but apart from them occupying most of the lounge area after dinner they
certainly weren't a problem.I managed to discover what time the party were expected to take breakfast and we timed our breakfast accordingly!
Breakfast was again well presented and served with plenty of items (including a good porridge) and plenty of spaces in the dining room.
Altogether a fine one night stay at a very reasonably priced (eventually!) hotel.

514Colin

09/05/2016
,
Honiton, United Kingdom

2

« No hot water for three days. »

Needs a bit of a make over. No hot water for three days, hence cold showers. The best they could do for some sort of compensation was one glass of free wine each. As we were with a coach party we seemed to be treated as cattle when it came to meal times. Staff were very surly, mainly to the fact that most did not speak English. Would not go again and if this what Best Western is like, will not go to any of there hotels.

Satisco

08/05/2016
,
Spalding, United Kingdom

4

« Location, location, location!! »

About a mile down a track from busy minor roads, is in a tranquil setting with walks, babbling streams, woods and wildlife - see red squirrel pictures - and I saw a huge grey crane in the river before it flapped up the hill outside my room to terrorise some sheep.
Hotel looks a bit tired externally and interior is 30's style Art Deco - especially the large dining room.
Was given a room over the kitchen with strong odours and noisy industrial fans outside the window (room 120) and was offered a nicer room when I complained (104).
Quite well equipped room although furniture shabby - but bathroom clearly modernised albeit a very narrow bath. No biscuits!!!
The whole hotel is hot and not a lot you can do other than leave a window open - even with rads off, there is a two inch diameter very hot pipe running along one wall and a large hot towel rail that cannot be turned off. Take care if you are offered a room like this and have young children.
Food average - dinner OK but nothing special for the price. Second night got a very nice takeaway from Indian restaurant by the bridge in Appleby! Breakfast was buffet style and somewhat dried up but poached egg (separately ordered) was perfect.
Most staff appeared to be in training and made mistakes but were all charming and this was not a problem.
Hotel evacuated at 12.30 at night due to false (fire) alarm - reason unknown - but well handled by all staff.

sallowe2016

07/05/2016
,
North Yorkshire, United Kingdom

5

« Little gem »

If looking for something in the middle of nowhere this is the place
Excellent clean hotel good staff
Red squirrel sanctuary in which the hotel run on our visit we seen 5 red squirrel we were very surprised to actually see 1 never mind 5
While we stay we were woken up to the fire alarm going the whole of the hotel was evacuated but was dealt with very quickly and professionally and we were able to return to our rooms once the fire brigade had checked out the situation
Breakfast was lovely with plenty of choice
Our family room was lovely with good size bathroom and tea and coffee facilities
We will return to this well managed hotel impressed

french45

06/05/2016
,
benfleet essex

1

« Dogs take priority over people! »

We booked this hotel four months in advance requesting a room in the bath house. We wanted to be able to see the squirrels from our room which the website suggested we would. We arrived to be told by reception that we did not have a room in the Bath House it was fully booked.What!! I booked it four months ago. Ah says the receptionist dog owners take priority for there,????? She gave us the key to an alternative room and requested payment in advance. A little disappointed I suggested we paid after we had seen it. We opened the room door to be hit by an overwhelming very unpleasant odour. I would not have put my pet dog in that room never mind sleep in it. It was awful. No alternative was available so, we chose to leave. Prepared to drive six hours home than to stay. This hotel serves coach loads and large parties who appear to take priority over individual bookings, OK possibly if you are a party but I would not recommend for individual bookings.

R1chardN

02/05/2016

3

« I read other reviews and wondered if I had the right place. »

A two would be too harsh but some aspects of this hotel are poor. The pluses are that the dinner servings are plentiful and well cooked. My score is an overall reflection.
I booked through the Best Western web site which is not very user friendly. I booked a DB&B deal and telephoned the hotel to arrange the time I wanted for dinner as suggested.
They could not initially find my booking but, when they did, they said their information from central reservation said it was a B&B deal. They asked me to take a print of my booking confirmation. The hotel uses a different booking reference to that from the central reservation bookings.
The hotel is easy to find. It is signposted and is at the end of a long private road that needs some repair work. It is set in 30 acres of open countryside. The location is pretty and there look to be good walks in the grounds. The exterior of the building could use some TLC.
The reception service worked but the receptionist had to talk to a man in the back room for any questions. The man gave us directions to our room.
The hotel has three floors and a number of corridors. The numbering is not logical but we found the room. It was clean but small. The view across the fields was nice. The bathroom was small and the shower a challenge. The toilet did not flush very well.
Dinner was better than expected. The hotel has a limited selection but the service is very fast and polite. The food is okay - the focus seems to be on quantity but it was all very edible.
Unfortunately breakfast was a disappointment. It was the usual buffet style but, after dinner, my expectation was too high.
Most of the staff are young and keen. Communication is okay.
I assume the hotels core business is from coach parties or weddings.
My stay was not expensive but I was disappointed with it. On reflection, the hotel was okay for a one nigh stay on my way to Scotland but my expectation was too high. I realise I should probably read Trip Advisor reports more deeply in the future.
I am a Diamond Best Western loyalty card holder. I got it on a 'we will match your status with other hotel chains' promotion. I did not receive any benefit as a result of my high status and I have to say I do not know if there is a benefit of having it.

3marie

02/05/2016
,
Glasgow, United Kingdom

4

« Short stay. »

Stayed here with friends last week on a deal . Very good value for money . It's is a bit remote but lovely surroundings. Room was large and clean, and bed was comfortable. Food was very good at dinner, with a good choice. Disappointed in the bar area as only 2staff were serving in the one bar that had to deal with a wedding, two coach loads of guests and the others that were staying. They should've had more staff on. Most staff were pleasant and friendly. Breakfast was good but missing mushrooms and beans, and they forgot to give us tea and coffee, but think that was due to it being busy. Good for a wee break.

Julie H

01/05/2016
,
Bristol, England, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely Countryside Hotel »

Although only 5 mins from M6 you would think it was in the middle of nowhere, approached by a single track road.
We had a lovely room at back of hotel with lovely views and a beck running below the window.
Room was very large with a big lovely comfy bed. Tea and coffee making facilities on room also hair-dryer.
Bathroom has just been renovated which looked lovely except they left the old bath in not sure why. Towels could also do with being replaced.
We had both bar meals and the 3 course meal in the restaurant which were both very good and very good value.
Staff were very polite and courteous.
Free wi fi in rooms

BoltonCaroline62

01/05/2016
,
bolton

5

« Glorious location »

Stayed for two nights, very warm welcome from reception. You arrive at the hotel via a mile long farm track and hotel located in a small Valley. They have a red squirrel colony in the grounds and we were lucky enough to be able to watch around a dozen running around the wooded area on the walk to the waterfall. The hotel itself apart from having several walkways is set in an area of natural beauty, with splendid views. It is the best location of any hotel I have stayed in in the UK. As soon as I arrived, I felt regardless of how the rooms are, the hotel had already won me over. the bleakness and peacefulness of the location just feel a world away from where I live and work. The location for me outweighs everything else, however the rooms and service were perfectly adequate. I would book to go again.

Enid A

27/04/2016

4

« Enid Adams »

This hotel is set in 30 acres of wild countryside with a single track road . There is a lovely beck running by the hotel and some rugged sheep . It is renown for the red squirrels which are well worth looking for. The hotel is quite large and the rooms very comfortable and nicely colour coded in furnishings .The large restaurant serves well cooked food and a good choice for coach parties , there were 3 coaches but plenty of room for us all . The staff are very good and served us swiftly and got the orders right . There are a lot of stairs , the lift took me up one floor then I had a long corridor and 10 steps down in two flights so you need to be mobile . The terrain is ok if you have good walking shoes . You do need transport as it is not near a town .A good place for walkers and near the M6 so easy for transport to get around , and the lakes and Cumbrian mountains . A nice place to relax and enjoy the scenery. I would go back .

405eddie123

26/04/2016
,
Preston, United Kingdom

5

« A PROPER HOTEL »

We spent one night here on a DB&B deal for 2 @Total price £69. This also included Wine and chocolates in the room.
The dinner was excellent with a choice of a spend of £15 to eat from the bar menu, or dine in the dining room with a three course meal with £21.95 to spend.
Basically everything is superb about this hotel, the friendly staff, very nice rooms, excellent food and a top English breakfast in the morning before departure, to the ambience of the large lounge with a log fire and the decor of the whole hotel.
There is a walk following the river where red squirrels can be seen - unfortunately we didn't see any this time, but we will definitely be back.
Well done Shap Wells - keep it going.

Andy13L

25/04/2016
,
Durham, United Kingdom

4

« A well hidden gem on the less commercial fringe of the Lakes »

We booked this hotel last minute and weren't really sure what to expect except I've never been disappointed by Best Western hotels,no matter what star rating. Finding the place was quite difficult as we did not set the satnav for Shap and it took us on a very convoluted route to get there (if a little exciting). If you are approaching through Shap beware speed camera traps there. The landscape around the hotel is unexpectedly spectacular with beautiful forest walks, monuments to Victoria, waterfalls and many other special places overrun with friendly red squirrels. It's a fantastic place for younger kids or for anyone wanting to escape without having to walk far. The hotel is dog friendly with special units for those of you not wanting to kennel your dog. The interior of the hotel is very spacious and there was entertainment most nights (generally for the older generations of bus travellers who drop off here but at least it was reasonably quality entertainment. The prices at the bar were reasonable for a hotel and for those not wishing to drink there is a games room with full size snooker table, darts and table tennis (all free) though the pool table was coin operated. Near to this there was a small functional gym with courtesy iced water etc. The rooms were typical Best Western but the matrasses were a bit lumpy in the family room we had. Masses of free coffee an tea (ridiculously so) and large plasma TV (if limited in channels). The room we had was very spacious but I would not have liked to be a very large person attempting to get in the 3/4 tight squeeze bath :) WiFi was an issue on arrival as it was not functioning (and there had been a number of complaints on tripadvisor suggesting this was common - though they were upgrading), however; the wish to be connected to the outside world disappeared after a very short walk around the grounds. I will definitely consider taking the family back to this place because the 2 days we spent was not enough to let us explore the area to its fullest. The only real low point of our time at this hotel was the shortage of staff, though it was out of season I guess and economies have to be made when offering this kind of hotel at the low price we paid from Superbreaks. Check out the dealsfor this hotel. You'd be crazy to pass up the experience for the price.

elona s

24/04/2016
,
London, United Kingdom

3

« Short Stay group holiday »

Had requested a twin room. On arrival we were given a small double with a four foot bed. The bathroom was too small to house bath, toilet and hand basin so basin was in bed room.
When I asked to change rooms the receptionist was indifferent and it was our tour manager who resolved the issue and we were allocated a nice large room with three single beds but only one chair, overlooking an inner courtyard so no view at all.
Breakfasts were good but the evening meals were poor.
The setting of the hotel was fantastic and to see red squirrels was a treat.
Pity the service in the Hotel did not live up to its position.

stanatlynn

24/04/2016
,
Durham, United Kingdom

3

« Out of bounds »

This hotel is actually around 4 mile from village of Shap if you want a quite isolated break this is the hotel to go to.Rooms are spacious and bathrooms have been recently updated.Transport is a must to get around this particular area.Hotel advertised entertainment on certain weekends.Most of staff are of a foreign nature.Breakfast was eat as much as you can with self service but on different days some items were missing on equring was informed they had run out and were waiting of a delivery.This being April did make me wonder due to remote and isolated location how did they manage in the winter months.

Jamie077

24/04/2016
,
Durham City, England

4

« Recovered from bad start to make good. »

After walking from Dufton around Old Cup Nick nearby, my wife and I ( and daughter and partner) were looking forward to our one nights stay at the Best Western Shaps Well and in particular I was looking forward to a long soak in a hot bath to ease my aching muscles!!
On arrival at a unusually located hotel - the location is isolated but actually a strength of the hotel - we found that the hotel was experiencing having no electricity supply. Nevertheless we went through the check in process in a dark reception area and we were allocated Room 87.
On Finding our room, out of one door to the exterior of the hotel and then through another, we found a room that was very poor. It was dark; felt damp and had no bath. It simply was unwelcoming in every sense and unacceptable as a room to stay.
We returned to reception and asked to be moved. Although not entirely in agreement with our concerns and sympathetic in attitude the staff said they would do what they could when the electricity was restored and they could check the room availability on the hotels computer.
Unfortunately the weather was very good and we sat outside and waited in the sun.
Meanwhile I can report, as my wife visited, their room, that the room our daughter and partner were allocate was far superior to ours. If we had been allocated a similar room there would not have been a problem.
Eventually, we were reallocated Room 120 and this was more than satisfactory and met our standards and expectations. Why we were not allocated this room in the first instance will remain a question only the hotel can answer!!!
After the aforesaid long soak we then enjoyed some pre-dinner drinks in the comfortable bar area and then further enjoyed a nice three course dinner in again comfortable surroundings.
There were three coaches in the hotel on the night however, understandably the coach parties were sat in one area of the large dining area together and those not on a coach holiday were sat nearest the windows overlooking the open countryside.
The bar staff and waitresses, many of whom were Spanish, were courteous and efficient and we enjoyed the service and our food.
the next morning after a good nights sleep we enjoyed a buffet breakfast served in similar lines to dinner the previous night.
We then undertook all the short walks around the hotel grounds - which the hotel provide guests the details in leaflet form - including that to the waterfall; the Queen Victoria monument and not forgetting the Spa area and the red squirrels feeding area.
All in all, it was a brief and pleasant stay and for the price we paid we left more than satisfied.
Had we only been allocated the better room on our arrival, it would have been a very good stay. The staff know the rooms and the hotel should provide guest with the best rooms available at all times. Room 87 needs some work on it before it is suitable.

bvpg

20/04/2016
,
Blackpool

4

« Group visit »

A group of us visited for a long weekend break and had a most enjoyable stay. The rooms were clean and comfortable, food was really good and staff were most helpful and friendly. What a great value for money break and would definitely recommend

Debra M

19/04/2016
,
Coventry, United Kingdom

5

« A little gem »

We have just returned from visiting family in Scotland via the M6 and we have stayed at this hotel with our Spaniel dog overnight going up to Scotland and on our return.
The hotel itself is full of character, clean and the staff are very friendly and helpful. Our room in the annex called "The Bath House" is available for those with dogs or those who may be disabled. We found it very clean, very spacious and comfortable. Lots of lovely fluffy white towels and a generous amount of tea bags etc.
We didn't eat in the evenings in the restaurant having already eaten before arrival but we heard good reviews from fellow guests. My partner was well impressed with the Theakstons draft beer as he says it has been kept very well. Breakfast is excellent and although self service the staff are constantly refreshing the hot food and the rotary toaster works well which is not often found in hotels.
Now to the best bit the grounds are beautiful with babbling brooks and small waterfalls. There are lovely paths to walk around the hotel that take you to a view point where the Red Squirrells are fed. There are also more adventurous walks just outwith the hotel for well equipped walkers. Whilst sitting in the bar in the evening we loved watching the Hares frolicking amongst the lambs. Take binoculars and watch the birds whilst sipping your drink.
This hotel is gorgeous and we have placed it firmly on our map for stopping off at in the future.

Liamsmamo

17/04/2016
,
Stuart, Florida

4

« Don't recognize the hotel from the negative reviews »

To begin with I am an American who traveled with a British friend on a coach trip full of mature British citizens. We stayed at Shap Wells Hotel for 4 nights and traveled out each day around the Lake District. The hotel was wonderful. I was looking for an old hotel with character and Shap Wells fit the bill. It is in the middle of nowhere. People passing by would never find it. We were in the main building on the top floor, room #31. The wi-fi reception was excellent. #31 is above the reception area so perhaps we got better reception than others.
Our twin bedded room had an adequate closet, night stand, desk, table and one comfortable chair. The bathroom was good size with a deep tub, warm radiator and good towels. There were body soap dispensers located by the tub and the sink. There was no shampoo.
The food was tasty and well prepared. Breakfast is self serve. Coach people, by far the majority are seated (same seats each night) at about 3/4 of the tables away from the wall of windows. Auto arriving folks are seated by the windows. The views are outstanding. The staff works very hard and does a good job of meeting people's requests.
During the 4 nights we were there there was entertainment for three nights. It ranged from a very good female singer to not so good folks.
The clientele except for one night were mature people. That night was a coach with US teenagers. I was not aware of any families with small children.
I enjoyed the hotel - enjoyed watching the other guests, loved the old look of the lobby and ground floor rooms. I'd encourage friends to go to this hotel.

John P

16/04/2016
,
Lincoln, United Kingdom

2

« Understaffed and mismanaged »

My wife and I stayed in room 7 from 7 to 11 April. From the outside it looked superb - a mile from the main road, nestling in a tiny dell beside a bubbling stream. Sadly the place was woefully understaffed, particularly as to housekeeping and waiting at table, the latter staff appearing poorly trained and, in a couple of cases, having English as a second, or even third, language. Wifi reception in our room was intermittent, but the young lady at reception was not very helpful when I sought her aid. The saving grace was the chef. He provided an excellent range of starters and main courses - plentiful, tasty and varied enough to satisfy all tastes. As to housekeeping, our room was clean and tidy, but the bed was never made up properly - just straightened out superficially.

Lynne T

15/04/2016
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« Hidden Gem »

Visited here on another Classic Britain break Lovely old hotel much nicer inside than the outside promises! We had a nice room with wine included. Reasonable bathroom The hotel has a quirky interior and the restaurant is in a lovely large ballroom style room The evening meal was much better than expected and the breakfast in the morning was very good. All the servers were very polite and attentive. The evening we stayed there was a singer in the restaurant and it made for a pleasant evening. The grounds are great lovely walks and even caught sight of a couple of red squirrels which was really good We would definitely go back and would recommend to anyone.

Joanne M

12/04/2016
,
Halifax, United Kingdom

5

« Fabulous Child and Dog Friendly Hotel »

Whilst looking for somewhere to stop overnight to break up the journey to Scotland I came accross the Shap Wells Hotel. What a fab find for a family traveling with a dog!! The lady on reception was lovely, chatting away to my little girl and keeping her entertained whilst I completed check in. The Old Bathhouse provides seperate accomodation to those traveling with dogs. It is also possible to sit and enjoy a meal or a drink in the bar seperate from the main building which is dog friendly. The food was resonably priced for a hotel menu and they were happy to do a small portion of anything on the menu for my little girl. The staff were cheerful and helpful even though they were extremely busy. Breakfast as you would expect is a serve yourself set up, with plenty to choose from...Fruit, yoghurt, cereal, meats and cheeses, hot buffet, toast and croissants. All the items on the hot buffet were regularly changed so everything we ate was fresh. No complaints about this hotel at all. Lovely rooms, great service and all set in beautiful grounds perfect for an early morning walk.

DFS1703

12/04/2016
,
Warwick, United Kingdom

3

« Isolated, but this adds to its charm »

I really didn't know whether to give it a 3 or a 4 rating. On the whole a very pleasant stay, the staff are very accomodating, efficient and plesant, Common areas large welcoming and very clean. Bedrooms are fine en suites good. All in all not a bad place. However what I felt did let it down was the food. Good Quantities but quality was a little lacking. I have had much worst food at other places and may be being a little harsh, but it is how I felt when I was there. Evening meal was a little overpriced for what it was, but the price of drinks in the bare was very competitive. Thursday breakfast service was chaotic, but Fridays was serviced well The outside space was really lovely with some little walks form the hotel door

jarvo2001

11/04/2016
,
birmingham

4

« Nice escape »

The foyer of the hotel is the nicest part; very grand and stately.
The food in the bar was good pub grub and I did not try the restaurant.
The rooms were fine , but I couldn't help being a little disappointed that they were standard BW rooms, I had hoped that the grandure of the lobby and staircases would have continued to the rooms. Nevertheless, they were clean, well equipped and cosy.
Please note, that the hotel is down a poorly maintained single track road and it is easily missed along the main road.
Isolated location by a river, good for couples, especially 50+

Aging-Bike-Chick

10/04/2016
,
Yorkshire

4

« Particularly good for group bookings »

We were part of a medium sized group who all congregated at the hotel over a weekend. The rooms are a good size, clean and bed large and comfortable. We had a small bath with shower over, which we prefer to shower only as you can have a soak after being out and about all day.
As far as food goes we think the hotel has it down to an art when serving groups all at the same time but allowing some choice of menu (4 starters, 4 mains and 3 puds). All the food was very nice standard fayre.
We thought it was all very good for the price and we would highly recommend it as a base for group/club weekend bookings.

Val P

08/04/2016
,
Torquay, United Kingdom

5

« A wonderful dog friendly hotel »

We stayed here overnight on our journey up to and back from Scotland. There is separate accommodation for those with dogs in The Old Bath House, just across from the main hotel. You have your own front door so no corridors to take the dogs through and just outside is a lovely footpath that follows the mountain stream up to the red squirrel feeding station and the woods beyond. Explore a little further and you will find a monument to Queen Victoria. The setting is glorious, rooms are comfortable and staff very friendly and helpful. On both nights we stayed there were coach parties but you can still find a quiet corner to have a drink and a reasonably priced bar meal. It would be an ideal spot to stay for a longer time and explore the Lake District from.

Angu5

06/04/2016
,
Hertfordshire, United Kingdom

4

« Mixed experience, glad we got a good deal! »

We stayed here for four nights on a brilliant myhotelbreak.com deal.
For what we paid it was very good value, but there were too many niggles if you had paid anything like the full price.
Whilst the staff seemed friendly, there didn't appear to be much organisation or management going on.
Our room was OK and had nice views. the bathroom had been partly refurbished, but they'd left the shabby bath, shower and toilet. There was no shaver socket and no ventilation unless you opened the window.
The breakfasts were typical buffet style with e.g overcooked eggs.
Three of our dinners were nicely cooked and presented, but from a limited "coach party" style menu.
However on Wednesday they had a "special" buffet style carvery, which was truly dreadful.
We went around 8 PM and the cold starters / salad had been out at room temperature for hours. The soup was OK.
The main course carvery consisted of roast beef which was absolutely incinerated. The chef apologised but said that was how their customers liked it. The other choices were dried up sausage or a saucy fish dish.
Desserts were well below the standards we had other nights.
We would avoid the carvery nights if possible.
They had karaoke-style singers in the bar a couple of nights, which the elderly coach party customers seemed to like. It just encouraged us to go back to our room.
The WiFi didn't work for three of the four days we stayed here.
Overall, we would be happy to go back again if we got a good deal, but certainly not for anything like the typical advertised rate, for which we would have rated our stay as poor.

Gillian A

05/04/2016
,
Keighley, United Kingdom

4

« Wonderful stay »

Stayed for 3 nights and had a lovely break. The room was very good value for money with a fabulous view and was very spacious. The only thing I could fault was that the bath was very narrow and difficult to get in to. The food was good if fairly basic but I would say that the service was quite slow. After asking if I could order wine to have with the meal I was told someone would come shortly. After getting my main course I asked again and still did not get anyone to take my order. I learned my lesson and on the following 2 nights got my wine from the bar before going into the dining room. The hotel staff were very friendly.
The location of the hotel was fantastic in the middle of nowhere with a stream and woodland. I went up to see the red squirrels each morning and was not disappointed. They came really close and I got some fantastic photos.

Bryan C

04/04/2016
,
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

4

« Unexpected treasures »

As we were spending a night in the Lakes we decided to have a night In Shap first.Taking the road to the hotel it looked like we were going nowhere and were surrounded by moors.Suddenly there was the hotel. It may not be the most modern decor inside but a wonderful location.It is very peaceful as there is nothing next to it and the scenery is lovely a twisting river and moorland made a lovely backdrop for breakfast and dinner. The food was good and the staff were friendly. We much enjoyed visiting the red squirrels before we left. I was very intrigued and had to look up it's history when I returned home. A very interesting place to stay

Chelsea J

02/04/2016
,
Lincoln, United Kingdom

4

« Good stay »

Nice hotel, large bedroom, lovely view, in the middle of no where so very peaceful, friendly staff, only issue I had was the bathroom, bath is too small and there were quite a few hairs in the bath, as the shower did not detach, I couldn't wash them away easily, apart from that, lovely stay, thank you

gunzle

30/03/2016
,
Leicester, United Kingdom

3

« Hidden gem »

Stayed 4 nights on a coach tour, lovely grounds, red squirrels are lovely to watch as are the birds. This hotel is very remote, which adds to its appeal, it's in a wooded area with a brook surrounded by bleak moorland,and very peaceful. The hotel has a lot of old world charm, comfy seating, and cosy. Food was good, now the gripe. We all had to sit down together to eat, I understand when there is a coach party it can get hectic, but we were rushed, hardly had time to eat, before food was whisked away, I had to grab my bread roll one night as I hadn,t time to finish it. They wanted us in and out as quick as possible, and made it obvious, put your cutlery down and meal was gone. I enjoyed my stay at this hotel, and would go back. I would give this hotel a 4, but for the indigestion that ensued it's a 3. Staff are friendly though, and was led to believe it's the chef that's on their tale to rush, someone have a word please.

lulufizzy

28/03/2016
,
Stanley, United Kingdom

5

« relaxing break »

Just returned from another break at our favourite hotel. This is a great base for visiting the lakes. We had our usual room (25) which was spotless. Staff were polite and helpful as always. The only tiny problem we have had in the past was slow service in the dining room, on this visit however this is no longer a problem. The food was lovely as always, with a really good choices. Already planning our next visit

Martyngate

28/03/2016
,
Leicester, United Kingdom

5

« Short four night break. »

This was our sixth visit to the island of tranquillity.
We were in a coach party with Woods Coaches of Leicester staying four nights.
As a coach party, some hotels lower their standards, but not here.
We were treated courteously and efficiently throughout our stay.
The food was excellent from the breakfast to the evening meal.
The breakfast offered a good range of fruits, cereals, fruit juices with a self service of cooked items from a generous counter.
The evening meal was three courses, with any body requiring special needs duly catered for. The food was always promptly served and always hot.
We had a couple of minor problems which were quickly rectified by Chris, assistant manager, many thanks.
The highlight of the hotel are the resident Red Squirrels in the woods beyond the hotel. Going up in the morning, we duly watched the antics of the squirrels around the feeding stations. They are not fazed by people allowing people to get quite close to them.
Many thanks to the staff for a truly relaxing and enjoyable stay

Angela H

27/03/2016
,
Southport, United Kingdom

4

« Easter break »

Just returned from this lovely hotel after a bargain two night break through myhotelbreaks.com. Despite arriving at the same time as a large coach party, check in was very fast and efficient.
Found our room and was impressed at the cleanliness of the room and the Sanderson bedding! Dinner on the first night was an enjoyable three courses with a free bottle of wine thrown in. Waiting on staff although very busy were efficient and very pleasant.
The second night after a busy day in Kendal, Keswick and ambleside we went down for dinner. There was a queue waiting to go in. The couple in front of us were turned away and told to come back at 8. Apparently we should have booked a table? At no time was this communicated to us and we could clearly see several empty tables. We duly went to the bar and bought a bottle of wine ( after much faffing from barman who hadn't got a clue giving us the wrong wine and overcharging us!) and awaited our "slot". The meal itself was again delicious and very well presented. There was a singer on in the bar but rather too much like karaoke for us.
When we came to check out we were asked to pay for bottle of wine WE hadn't ordered? By the way the Wi-Fi was excellent so not sure why others have had problems with it?
Overall a lovely hotel, good food and (mostly) pleasant staff. For £129 for two nights dinner, bed and breakfast, free bottle of wine on first night and lake cruise for two thrown in I'd say it was excellent value.

milo1965

27/03/2016
,
Southport, United Kingdom

4

« Easter get away »

Arrived late on friday just as a coach party got in. Reception were very fast and everyone checked in in under 10 minutes, most hotels abroad could learn from this.
Very old style but beatiful country hotel literally on the middle of nowhere. From main roads (A6 or M6) steep drops down to hotel on a private road. Some pot holes but mainly good tarmac (better than roads at home)
Room was good, nothing special but more than adequate. Large tv for a change but small kettle. Did find though that double glazed window had a big draft getting through the bottom of it.
Food in restaurant is excellant. First night no problem getting a table. 2nd night however we turned up and was told we should have booked as they were full and would have to wait 30 mins, we counted at least 4 empty tables. (On noticing the booking sheet saw that our room was already booked for 7pm but hadn't turned up - this wasnt our boking was someone using our room number ?? )
We decided whilst waiting for our table to get a bottle of wine from the bar. Bar staff didnt know what wine was available from the menu and not only gave us the wrong wine but also over charged us. We paid for this at the bar rather than putting on the room bill (more later)
(Prevoius night some asked the bar for a "hot toddy" and they pulled funny faces not knowing what it was despite being close to the scottish border!!)
Because of the miss understanding over the restaurant booking and the problem at the bar i went to complain at reception. They said they would pass it on to the manager but didnt write anything down so thinking this would not happen asked to speak to the duty manager. I was informed that he had gone out! Never heard anything else back from them.
On checking out was about to pay bill (we hadnt booked anything to the room) when i noticed a bottle of wine on the bill !! I pointed out that we had paid for this at the bar at the time and when the girl got the ticket out it was for a different bottle than we had purchased, the room number on the ticket had been scrubbed out and our room number put on it and the ticket hadn't been signed. This was either a genuine mistake or the bar staff were on a scam (remember i have already mentioned that they over charged me at the bar).
Overall the hotel gets a 4. Food would get a 5 but bar staf a zero.
Would recommend this hotel but check your bill on leaving

john u

25/03/2016
,
Airdrie, United Kingdom

4

« lovely hotel »

set in a very remote place but close to motorway,lovely dining room evening meal could be better but for the price it was a bargain break.breakfast was buffet style and very good,staff were very pleasant and helpful....

1schumacher

25/03/2016
,
Lowestoft, United Kingdom

4

« belle coaches trip to the lakes »

this hotel is in a lovely setting just off the motorway the staff at this hotel are so helpful we were dinner and breakfast and the food and service was excellent just a short walk up the path opposite you will find red squirrels overall a brilliant place to stay

geoffmaria

24/03/2016
,
west sussex

4

« SO COMFORTABLE AND REMOTE »

Stayed for 4 days . when we 1st saw the hotel from the main rd we were worried ...we neednt have been ...lovely hotel , cleam, friendly , lovely food and grounds. . we had breakfast ( good wide choice ) and evening meal . 3 choices for starter, main and dessert . loved the art deco look. lovely grounds and the squirrels were a bonus one of them seemed to be a poser... will visit again .

Gwyn S

24/03/2016

2

« Dreadful »

Initial room was occupied......by workmen doing a refurbishment - oops!
Alternate room offered required significant navigational skills to find. Unfortunately second room meant suffering an unwelcome smell in the corridor. The bedroom was tired but I made allowances for the fact that a refurbishment was in the offing AND we were on a "bargain deal" with Buyagift.
The bathroom was, in my opinion, borderline dangerous - a hot tap that managed to switch itself off unless opened fully, when fully open the water would shoot over the sink wetting both you and the floor. The grab rail on the bath was loose; very easy to trap palm of hand.
The bed was reasonably comfortable but we did question whether or not there were 'creepy crawlies' in the room; soon found out there were - bites to body and blood on sheets. We subsequently found an insect killer under the bed.
The courtesy tray had a kettle with a broken (non existent) switch; kettle could only be used via mains switch.
On our second night we were awoken by the fire alarm; we followed the evacuation process and waited, with others, at designated assembly point. After several minutes had passed the alarm was silenced, but we still waited to be informed that all was safe. Yet more time passed but where was a member of staff to advise. Eventually one brave (foolish?) person went back into the hotel to ascertain what was going on; only to find there were two staff members in the reception having a conversation. No apology given to any of the party stood outside in the freezing cold.
Hotel staff were made aware of my grievances and I was advised an apology would follow via email............I'm still waiting (14 days)!
Find out if a the singer is on....you cannot escape!
We were on a deal with Buyagift; in my opinion we overpaid - massively.
BTW. don't believe the "internet available" rubbish.

SurenTrip

20/03/2016

4

« Into the woods »

We visited during the time when the floods hit Cumbria. The road to the hotel, in the night, was not lit by road-side lights. So finding the correct way to the hotel proved to be a challenge despite having a gps device in our car. But the hotel's ambience and rooms remedied the experience on the road. The view of the surroundings near hotel in the morning provided a breath-taking view.

and49

14/03/2016
,
Lincoln, United Kingdom

5

« Great Experience »

My wife and I stayed last weekend for two nights with our parents who are all in their 80's on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis. There was nothing that we could fault. The rooms were very clean and comfortable and the food was excellent.
There was a Motown and Northern Soul weekend going on in the hotel which was very well attended but the service was still really good. We would definitely recommend this hotel.

Josephine L

13/03/2016

1

« Left hungry... »

Having been recommended here for a Sunday Roast me and my partner went on a drive from nearby Tebay to investigate. After finding the long drive in the middle of nowhere quite funny we arrived. Our words on viewing the hotel "Is this the hotel from The Shining!"
The decor is very dated and on entering we were greeted by coach loads of older people getting food from a carvery. Being quite young we immediately felt like we had lowered the age limit!! Having had a peek at the disappointing food on offer we asked if we could order bar food. The young man serving was not very clued in so asked someone else. He said that was fine.
We got two diet cokes which tasted awful as the syrup has ran out.
We ordered a steak, fish finger and tartare sauce panini and nachos. £30 for this little amount of food which we had to pay for in reception!! All very odd!
We felt like we were in a faulty towers!
Food came - awful. £17 of steak was tiny with a few chips. I had a dry panini with mushed fish fingers in - no tartare sauce. Nachos were covered in cheap cheese. I will eat anything but left most of my food.
I am not one to complain about food but having spent £30 we were really disappointed and couldn't wait to leave.
The rooms and hotel may be lovely - who knows?
As we stopped at Tebay services on the way back home we looked at the amazing food on offer and regretted not just eating on the motorway!!

englandadventure57

08/03/2016
,
Sutton in Ashfield, United Kingdom

5

« A lovely place »

I would definitely rate this hotel,the rooms are very clean and comfortable and well maintained.The breakfast was excellent and well presented. The location is stunning and near some woods that have Red Squirells that are very entertaining to watch. A lovely stay,thankyou.

englandadventure57

08/03/2016
,
Sutton in Ashfield, United Kingdom

5

« A Hidden Gem »

A lovely hotel,very comfortable and very friendly. The breakfast was very good and well presented. Clean and comfortable room with scenic views.Near to woods that have red squirells running around collecting nuts,they are so entertaining to watch.I would reccomend staying at this hotel because its in a stunning location.

dizzywizzy

06/03/2016
,
newcastle upon tyne

4

« Beautiful Vintage Hotel! »

We have just returned from our first visit to the Shap Wells Hotel and we will definitely be back!
Excellent, friendly, helpful, hard-working staff!
Lovely, well-presented meals, including very tasty vegetarian dishes.
Beautiful period hotel with original features and log fire.
Many little cosy seating areas.
It dates back to Victorian times, so full of character- including an Art Deco dining room.
Set in beautiful grounds, feels very remote, but only minutes away from the A6 motorway. In between Penrith and Kendal, both under 30 minutes drive away and lovely market towns to visit.
Long farm track to it!
It's a haven for red squirrels, they are running everywhere in the grounds - delightful!
We attended for their first 1940's weekend, which was fantastic value!
2 nights DBB including a Gala Dinner on Saturday, 2 nights of 1940's music and entertainment, a 1940's jazz afternoon with high-tea, all for £99 a night for a double room - outstanding value!
Rooms obviously older, but clean, comfortable and very spacious.
Lovely moorland views from many rooms.
We loved it and will return!
Check out their website they have all kinds of themed weekends and activities going on.
Full sized snooker table, pool table, table tennis table and small aerobic gym in hotel.

kates1987

05/03/2016
,
Nottingham, United Kingdom

3

« Perfectly pleasant. »

Nothing special but this was a good pit-stop on the way from St Andrews - Nottingham in order to see some of the Lake District. We had a "double" room which was actually two singles pushed together which I didn't like but better to have a bigger bed than not big enough. The hotel itself is somewhat dated, particularly the decor and the 60s era music playing during breakfast. The food itself was perfectly fine and there was a large selection from cooked and uncooked breakfast foods. If you like something a bit quirky, this will suit you fine.

Pennywise2

03/03/2016

4

« Relaxing hotel »

Just returned from three days at the Shap Wells hotel. Booked through myhotelbreak.com and got a fantastic deal for dinner,bed and breakfast a free bottle of wine and two tickets for a Windermere cruise. The hotel is in the middle of nowhere and we took a wrong turn and got stuck on a farm track but two very kind farm hands pulled us out with their tractor so take care. The road to the hotel is narrow with some potholes and look out for the sheep and goats on the road. The hotel itself is excellent from the pleasant helpful staff to the fabulous food. Our room was lovely with great views. It's not one of your modern or boutique hotels but that's what we liked about it.It was very clean and has lovely lounges and a roaring fire. The wifi was off when we were there as they are laying new cable which was a bit disappointing The bar prices were quite reasonable.The hotel is quite remote but if you want a relaxing holiday this is the place to go. We would definitely return.

Marion D

29/02/2016

5

« Weekend Getaway »

We read some reviews before booking and it was a mixed bag. Husband booked it on booking.com and that was a good move. It really is in the middle of nowhere but easy to find (read the history of the place and all becomes clear) It's not a boutique hotel but what it is, is very comfortable, very clean and very friendly, in lovely surroundings. The staff are very welcoming and work their socks off to give great service. The weekend we were there, the place was packed for a music weekend but we never waited too long for anything, either in the bar or the restaurant. We walked around the grounds after breakfast and then went off to explore. A good base to explore from, not too far to travel anywhere. To sit by the fire with a drink before and after dinner was bliss! The food is good and the breakfast is a gutbuster! The room we had was very comfortable with usual tea/coffee etc and plenty of it and a TV. Bathroom was very clean with plenty of towels. Housekeeping is of a high standard. No bathrobes, not a complaint, just an observation. We would certainly go back; it must be gorgeous in summer. A lot of the people we spoke to were repeat visitors so that tells you something. There are plenty of themed weekend breaks for those who like them and apparently very successful. The only thing I would say is: please upgrade the hairdryers??

Vix H

27/02/2016
,
Kendal, United Kingdom

5

« Wedding Fayre & Carvery »

We attended the Wedding Fayre on 18th Oct. Bucks Fizz was lovely touch. The wedding fayre was well planned by Family Affair of Kendal X 3 course carvery was delicious X I had the pork and the best apple sauce I have ever had X the beef was yummy too X I pinched a bit lol X if you are in the Lakes you need to head here for a brilliant meal :)

Janemarkham

22/02/2016

5

« A lovely surprise »

My friend & I have just had a lovely weekend with Grays Travel Barnsley . It was a mystery weekend ..with a couple of hrs in a very rainy Lancaster ,then another couple of hrs in Kendal ..
Then we arrived at the beautiful Shap Wells hotel ..everything about the hotel was good from the stunning location to the lovely evening meal & breakfast ..we could have joined in the entertainment in the function room if we had wanted too ..I would recommend this hotel to anyone thinking of staying there ...

Pard0e

20/02/2016
,
Stirling, United Kingdom

5

« Ideal quiet location »

We just spend a lovely night here. Fantastic location on the edge of the Lakes. I read some reviews before we booked- I think people need to be reasonable in what they expect from a three star hotel.
We found it very clean and comfortable and the staff were very pleasant and helpful. We will definitely be back!

sil

20/02/2016
,
Manchester England

3

« Needs updating »

The hotel and surrounding area very quiet, you are quite literally in the middle of nowhere. The hotel does need an upgrade felt like I had gone back to the 1970's. Family rook o.k, ate at the restaurant(nothing else nearby) £11 for a burger and chips a little pricey but food was good(although no children's menu printed they would make up a child's meal). Breakfast was good. The receptionist on arrival was not very helpful, although the other staff were throughout our stay. The tv in the room had only 5 channels and to make matters worse no wi-fi. Different staff gave different reasons for it not being on however got the indication that it had not worked for some time. Why not put this on web site as with little else to do in hotel this was a big letdown.

We were surprised at Christmas with this short break by our daughter, who found it on Wowcher for a reasonable amount.
The hotel itself is very easy to find, being just off the M6 at Junc 39. In fact you can see the motorway in the distance from the rear north east facing first floor rooms, there is however no noise at all. Very happily nestling in a quiet valley in the middle of nowhere...not so good if it snows though.( Word of warning, The approach roads are single track and very twisty uppy downy...WATCH YOUR SPEED. we saw a very nasty Head On collision on one such bend, Renault Clio V Range Rover, both write offs.)
It is a large hotel with over 100 rooms, the main building complex housing most of them, with a smaller annexe to one side and a seperate building ' the bath house' on the other side of the car park. They do take dogs too, for a surcharge.
From what I gather, the hotel has a fair amount of coach party clientelle, but these were not in evidence last week (10-13th feb 2016) For the first part of our stay there were about 8-10 rooms occupied but that picked up from the friday when 29 cars were in the car park, obviously the run up to the Valentines weekend dinner dance organised for saturday night!
The Hotel organise various themed weekends with entertainment laid on, the next one being a second world war night, looks good on the posters.
Our room was at the rear of the hotel on the first floor (as were most of the other guests ) which had the distant view of the motorway and railway line but this did not detract from the beauty of the open moorland and allowed the rising sun to sort of peek into the room in the morning.
The room itself was very clean and tidy, bathroom spotless - including the shower head, a favourite gripe of mine in hotels - with fresh towels every day. The decor left a bit to be desired with the overall feeling of 1990's or earlier russet, gold and amber allied with G-plan. A bit dated but as I said really clean and fresh looking.
Queen size bed but only one bedside table...bit odd.
Plenty of coffee and tea makings and the reception keeps extra supplies if you need them.
The Grounds are realy nice in a rough and authentic Lakeland way. The site sits in a small valley with a small Beck (with waterfalls) and conifer trees and rhodidendrons plentifull.
For us, one of the highlights of the trip was finding the colony of Red Squirrells. These are, aparently, a record holding group among the conservation world for consitent high numbers spotted at once, not just a couple of very active ones. We saw approx 7 in view at one time, could have been more - they do move fast - and I managed to get a few realy good pictures.
Staff on the site have had a feeding programme in place for many years which has helped to enbolden these little critters with no fear of humans, they just run around between the feeders and dont care if you are in the way! Well worth putting some cash in the collection box for them.
Now the not so good...
The food was not realy something to write home about, passable is about all. The first evening we decided to try the fixed price 3 course restaurant menu at just over £21 each..not worth the expence. Some of the food offered to guests in the bar looked much better, and cheaper too.
Bar 'snacks' limited to peanuts and a couple of flavours crisps, but they were very good when my wife requested a sandwich for herself after 6pm (because I was ill and decided not to eat - long story) and they even brought it up to the room.
All things concidered it was a very pleasant winter break but must be very busy in the summer peak time once a few coach parties get in there, I just hope they employ a few more staff!

SaraC43

16/02/2016
,
Alton

3

« Unique location »

Lovely location in the middle of nowhere with a red squirrel sanctuary! Left waiting quite a while to check-in but staff polite and pleasant. Unfortunately the bed and pillows were uncomfortable and there wasn't a mirror to use when drying your hair.

Set away from the madding crowd this mock but near to the lakes a this french chateaux/hunting lodge is quaint,
Manor house on the inside with open log fires.
Rooms sizable and clean.Good beds=good nights sleep.
Breakfast self service of a high quality.
Staff friendly and attentive.
Walks , woods and red squirrels galore.
Holiday in itsself

Beatrice-TA

13/02/2016
,
london county hall

5

« "A quiet secluded place" »

We stayed here for one night, we were told to get to our room we had to go back outside it was in a building through the car park and was called The Old Bath House. The building didn't look anything special on the outside but once inside was much the same as the rooms in the main building. Very clean and warm with everything we needed. The mattress was uncomfortable, thin and springs stuck out but that was our only gripe.
The food was good and there was an excellent selection at breakfast.
This seems to be a busy hotel there was a wedding when we were there but staff seemed to cope more than adequately.

tcorleone4

11/02/2016
,
Kirkcaldy, United Kingdom

4

« Four Nights Away. »

We booked through Classic Britain a four night DBB break to the above named Shap Wells Hotel. Overall very very good value the 4 night break cost 99 pounds per person, included in this fantastic price was a bottle of wine, and also a Windermere cruise. All good so far , there was a couple of issues with the cleanliness of the bath, and also there was some black mould around the window seals and a bit of condensation. These were minor problems though as the food was quite superb for what it cost us. I would have no hesitation in recommending this hotel to anyone. We will be back in the future. Just a last wee note to say the hotel has a small gym area, a full size snooker table, table tennis, darts and a pool table, all good for a boys weekend away.

Clare H

09/02/2016
,
Blackpool

4

« Wonderful weekend »

Stayed this weekend for one night B&B. The hotel is in the middle of nowhere, set in beautiful grounds. Walk details are available in reception. The hotel was clean and warm. Check in was easy and staff were helpful. Food and drinks were great in the bar lounge. We had a nice big double room. The bathroom was a little bit worse for wear but clean and adequate. The breakfast bufffet was fantastic. All in all, a great hotel and we can't wait to return when the weather gets a bit drier!

Tony S

09/02/2016
,
Doncaster, United Kingdom

4

« Weekend Break »

What an adventure! We arrived in near pitch blackness along a narrow road and underneath the West Coast main Line. The Hotel is in a secluded spot amongst the Cumbrian Fells. It is ideal for getting away from it all and is great for 'getting away from it all'. The grounds boast Red Squirrels. The 3 course dinner and buffet breakfast were very good. My only regret is that we had to be away by 9.30am and I would have liked longer to explore further. A stream, roaring like the wind, lay outside our bedroom but you wouldn't have known it. Comfortable room and bed.

atzencoates

06/02/2016

3

« Weekend break »

Wowcher gift, advertising bottle of wine and told that wasn't the deal, but because it was on the email they honoured it.
Evening meal from the bar was a steak burger and chips at a whopping £11.95, which was edible but not mouthwatering.
Breakfast was full English and sufficed my needs.
Now off for the boat ride, which was the other part of the deal.

RichClarkImages

04/02/2016
,
Royal Tunbridge Wells, United Kingdom

3

« Good Value - Great Location »

We decided to split our Christmas visit to the Highlands from the South East in half and we usually stay in the Lakes. Best Western were offering excellent rates in late December and the proximity to the M6 made it an ideal stop off point.
The hotel is located with great access to the outdoors. A good spot to walk from and for me a perfect spot to head out early from with my camera. The nearby river and waterfalls provided me with plenty of interest. There was a games room and basic gym which we checked out. (Some newer table tennis bats wouldn't go amiss). It did take some finding, so improved signage might help.
The room was adequate, the bed comfortable but it was let down a little by a very thin interconnecting door which let a lot of sound through. At low occupancy I imagine grouping rooms together keeps housekeeping costs down but better to space people out if noise is a known issue.
The bar area was comfortable with a good range of options. Ales were unavailable due to it being low season but why not bottled ales?
We enjoyed our stay and I can't help but think with a bit of attention to detail and some investment the hotel could go from strength to strength. We'll certainly stop in again.

Nick B

02/02/2016
,
South Yorkshire, United Kingdom

2

« 2 Night stay »

Lovely setting great for walkers, the receptionist was quite rude when we arrived.we were 1 hour early so we went into the bar for some food, there was a carvery so we asked if there was a table for two and a waitress made a table up for us. We wish she hadn't. The meal was 3 course the homemade soup was nice and the carvery was basic and only one slice of meat,not good value for £14 each. There were young children running around the restaurant sticking their fingers in all the deserts and nobody was stopping them. The young girl who finally checked us in was very nice and polite, but this was the last time we ever saw anybody else at reception the whole of our two day stay, even when we checked out there was nobody there. We ended up leaving our key on reception. The room was ok reasonably clean, but the bed was terrible one side of the mattress had collapsed the spring were all broken. On reading other reviews there has been reports of worn and damaged mattresses for months. I've seen one for the room we stopped in from 3 weeks before. The staff are obviously not acting on the customers feed back. I never read reviews before I stop anywhere as I like to go to places with a open mind, but on returning from me stay I've read a few reviews which has prompted me to add one for the first time.

Although the décor of the hotel appeared dated, it was obvious that housekeeping/maintenance have been working hard, as I saw no dirt/dust/damage to my room or the public areas. As an example it was the first time in many a year in any hotel that the silicone sealant in the bathroom was all intact and still white. I ate in the evening in the bar which has an extensive menu, reasonably priced and of good quality. Breakfast was of very good quality. All staff were courteous and well dressed, Would recommend this hotel as a stop in transit, as it is close to the M6, up to a family adventure, due to the area and the size of the grounds, woods, moors, and rivers.

mdkb1984

24/01/2016
,
Blackburn

5

« 70/80/90's Night Fabulous »

Had an absolutly fantastic night at the event. £35 for accomodation, breakfast, buffett at the evening nad entertainment. Fantastic service and night. Decor needs updating in the rooms but good for the price.

lynnec1

24/01/2016
,
Darwen

5

« Enjoyable stay at The Shaps Wells Hotel. »

We stayed at the hotel for 3 nights over the New Year period. Our room was more than adequate. It was very warm with a large comfortable bed. There was a log burning fire in the very nice lounge area. Staff were helpful and pleasant. Would recommend this hotel for its ambience, setting and food. There is a red squirrel reserve in the grounds. We had an enjoyable stay and will definitely return.

16/01/2016

2

« Poor service »

Booked this hotel the year before (2014) after doing total warrior. Unfortunately the manager died and our booking for a numbers of rooms was lost. We did however get rooms but were ripped off with the price. The new manager asked for our details so he could refund us. But after giving all the details he never got back to us. We have stayed there for the last four years and never had an issue before. Would have liked to go again but totally put off. The hotel made a lot of money from us as we stayed a couple of nights and stayed in the bar !!!

Stranton

14/01/2016
,
Co Durham

4

« Happy Christmas »

We visited this hotel, with friends, for Christmas 2015. I can thoroughly recommend this hotel for its ambience and food. The staff are friendly. The setting of the hotel is wonderful, away from the beaten track. There is a red squirrel reserve in its grounds together with wonderful streams and waterfalls. The only slight reservation we have is that the hotel rooms were often chilly so wrap up when you go and don't let it out you off.

janet f

08/01/2016
,
Nottingham, United Kingdom

4

« christmas at shap wells »

Staying here on a coach holiday , downstairs was refubished to a high standard .but the room we had was awful 063 very small , damp, shower didn't work , shower curtain was very smelly.but I will say we were well looked after and the staff very friendly, food good so if we came again would want a better room .

lancsjohn2

06/01/2016
,
Lancashire

3

« New years day stay »

Stayed one night on 1st jan. For the price we paid it was fine. There was a coach party staying for the new year so it was mostly older guests. We stayed in room 105 which seemed quite small but didnt see other rooms to compare. The room was adequate for our needs overall however the mattress desperately needs replacing, my partner had a poor nights sleep as you could feel the springs in the mattress. Some areas of the room could benefit from some deep cleaning such as the tv remote which was quite dirty as were the bath handles where they attach to the bath. The only light in the bathroom did not work correctly and we didnt feel the need to report this at 10.30pm and hope that these points might be picked up on a housekeepers room inspections. Dinner was ok but not memorable and seemed to suit the coach residents. Breakfast again was ok. Overall the majority of staff were friendly and seemed eager to please which was a definite plus point. The morning of departure saw staff members sat in the corridor waiting to service rooms. They knocked on our door at 9am. When we left around 10am they again were eager to get in our room and although this wasn't particularly a problem to us I could see how some guests may feel rushed to leave. In summary I would say the experience was ok for the price paid but there wasn't anything to make me particularly want to rush back. May I also add that I worked as a hotel manager for numerous years and that this review is written with a basic understanding of how the hospitality industry operates.

ianfinch

02/01/2016
,
Nottingham, United Kingdom

4

« Value for money, but some improvements needed »

The hotel from the outside is very picturesque but inside is in need of a little TLC. The decor is old in parts, but there is a charm to the place overall. During our stay the wifi didn't work (no reason given other than a sign on reception that it was down until a certain date) and the hotel is too rural be on the 3G network. Our room was large, but hot water pipes ran under the radiator, so even with the heating off it got way too warm in the room. Opening the window didn't help as we had the air vent to the kitchen a metre from our window (we overlooked the kitchen and dining area flat roof). The matress springs were starting to come through, so not a brilliant nights sleep (that coupled with the heat in the room). Good choice of breakfast items, but the coffee was weak and the orange juice tasted like it had been watered down with chlorine water. We ate in the bar and the portions were very large indeed as well as tasty too. The house red was good and not over-priced. We got a very good online offer for the B&B rate, so all in it was good value for what we paid and I would consider staying again, but only if the price were similar or a little higher.

Walter C

01/01/2016
,
Appleby-in-Westmorland, United Kingdom

5

« Excellent New Year venue »

A group of nine stayed for the banquet and overnight accommodation and we unanimously agreed it to have been a memorable event. The staff could not have been more helpful, the rooms were clean and comfortable and the food excellent given the numbers catered for. The entertainment being based around the 1960's and 1970's was appreciated by our group. If there is a down side, car parking is a bit tight so get there early.

steepleref

31/12/2015
,
Royston, United Kingdom

5

« Excellent Hotel »

Stayed overnight as part of fire crews involved in local flood relief work. Cannot speak highly enough of the service we received. Warm welcome, good food and very comfortable beds together with a very early breakfast specially for us as we had to be on the road by 0530hrs. Thank you Shap Wells and Happy New Year

JCT61

31/12/2015
,
Doncaster, United Kingdom

4

« Twixmas Break »

Made a return visit as there was a great offer for a post-Christmas break. This is a good base for visiting the Eden Valley, the westerly dales of Yorkshire, the Lake District and even the north Lancashire coast. Although it has a remote location, it is well served with road access from main routes, although the hotel's own access roads, whichever way you arrive, are in need of some attention. The poor weather didn't put us off and we had pleasant days out. The free wifi wasn't working whilst we were there but it wasn't really a problem. The food was good and we had a nice room but if I stay again I would rather be in a different part of the building as 120 seems to get quite a bit of noise which I assume came from machines or fridges in the kitchen and dining area.

Phil D

30/12/2015
,
Sunderland, United Kingdom

4

« Shap Wells Beautiful Hotel »

Well this hotel is a hidden jewel in the Cumbrian crown
Beautiful hotel, Victorian decor throughout like I imagine it being like this on the titanic.
Very pleasant and friendly staff, some very nice scenic walks through the hotels 30 acres.
The only critisism I have is the lack of history around about the hotel, as no one seemed to know it was a prisoner of war camp for high ranking German pows or that the well contains Epsom salts and sulphur ( the reason the hotel was built here!)
More info for customers about being a red squirrel sanctuary too.

Barry G

30/12/2015
,
Swadlincote, United Kingdom

5

« ''Excellent Christmas Break'' »

Just arrived back from one of the best Christmas breaks at a wonderfully friendly hotel a few miles from the M6 beautifully positioned in the lovely lakeland countryside.The hotel was very clean and tidy and the staff were attentive to our every need. The Christmas menu over the five day break was very good with with plenty to choose from, especially the buffet breakfast with the best porridge I have tasted at any hotel visited in the past. The festive entertainment was good especially the Penrith Brass Band. Look forward to another visit next year.

TheJacksons57

28/12/2015
,
Blackpool, United Kingdom

4

« Excellent value for money »

Picturesque rural location, very peaceful and remote yet minutes from the m6. Polite staff at both reception and bar. Spacious, warm, clean and comfortable room (no.110). Good choice of breakfast. Roaring fire to sit by for that lovely wintery feel. Slightly disappointing and overpriced bar meals but good puds and nice coffees. Would visit again, and recommend to others.

Adrian M

24/12/2015
,
Aberdeen, United Kingdom

5

« Wonderful Stay »

Lovely hotel situated in amazing countryside. Ideal for those with a dog as these are welcome in the hotel annex and the walks available around the hotel are great. Our room was warm and very comfortable. The bar food very satisfactory.

David B

16/12/2015

5

« Short break in Cumbria »

This is a beautiful hotel set in wonderful surroundings,seems to be totally isolated but is approx 10 minutes from the motorway and easily accessible to local attractions.
We were there days before the horrendous floods in the area but the local rivers made for a lovely sight, wonderful for walkers

Coralee H

15/12/2015

4

« Mrs harvey »

We arrived Sunday 13th dec to tues 15th ..the break was lovely and relaxing ..the room we stayed in was 115 which was looking over the stream and hills ,.basic but very clean .it is a bit dated and people complaining of wi fi...I don't understand some people ...why do you want to go away and live on your phones..there is a games room to play pool ,darts ,snooker and table tennis. Which we did ,the staff were very friendly and helpful .there is a pathway to the side of the hotel where you can walk and see the red squirrels ......I loved it ....only thing I found was the bar meals were quite expensive ..

ian l

13/12/2015

3

« Disappointing »

Looked very good from the outside and in the reception area but in all other areas the decor is dated and tatty, Wi Fi only available in the public areas, not in the room as
advertised, very slow and unusable at times.Bed not that comfortable as it was 2 singles
pushed together with a ridge in the middle.The food was excellent and all the staff did a fantastic job. I booked my 3 night break on a last minute deal and it was excellent for the price, but if i had paid the full price i would have been very annoyed about it

ljtravel15

12/12/2015
,
Buxton, United Kingdom

2

« No signal, no wifi ?? In need of an update. »

I stayed at the hotel for a 2 day training conference, which was my second visit. My first visit was in 2012 and the signal was bad but at least they had wifi. The reason given by staff was 'it's a bandwidth issue, and won't be resolved until 2016'.
For a hotel hosting conferences, especially one that's in a poor signal area, you'd think wifi would be a top priority. Especially as best western boast high speed internet in all of their hotels!
The service from staff is a little rough around the edges, just like the ageing decor.
It's saving grace is the food! The chef does an amazing job!
I don't think I'll visit again for business and leave the place to the coach tours which seem to love the seclusion.

Gypsy60_11

11/12/2015
,
Sunderland, United Kingdom

5

« Emergency »

Booked 3 rooms at hotel, all were what we asked for. We had a four poster and friends rooms has showers and no bath.. The rooms on the first floor were in god state of repair and looked newly decorated. The hotel itself is charming in wonderful grounds. The river and stream were in full flow. The hotel was fairly full with emergency crews from all around the country because of the extreme weather conditions causing flooding. One day the emergency helicopter was forced down because of high winds. the 3 crew members were given a free breakfast, by a friendly member of staff.Breakfast was good value for money and service was good

caroleT312

08/12/2015
,
Lincoln, United Kingdom

5

« Mid week break »

We had a wowcher voucher for this hotel.. Really enjoyed our stay.. The situation, the actual hotel, the room, the staff.. Everything was just so nice.... But it rained the whole visit... Never mind we had coats and we hit out and enjoyed our visit... The food was good and varied, the whole experience, for us was just lovely and yes we will return in the summer, for a different view.... We will return for a summer visit... ??

Cassii W

08/12/2015

3

« Disappointed »

The surrounding area is absolutely beautiful, picturesque even but I have to say I was quite disappointed with a few points. I understand the hotel is practically in the middle of nowhere and appreciate the staff have alot to deal with on a daily basis however the Receptionist was rude and quite abrupt when speaking to not only us but other hotel guests. We purchased our hotel stay as a spur of the moment Wowcher deal, The receptionist was relatively pleasant until he referred to us as " Wowcher customers " I'm sorry but our money is as green as anyone else's regardless of where our reservation was purchased from. We did plan on eating in the wonderful looking dining room however we could only order a three course meal so decided to go for room service instead, the curry I ordered had at least a cup of water in the bottom of the bowl, with a soggy popadom. I'm sure it was a microwave meal, it cost close to £10. My partner had bangers and mash, the sausages were hard and the mash left much to be desired again almost £10 and we were charged an additional £4.00 for the micro meals to be delivered to our door! The room itself was small and basic but that was expected, the value mould at around the seals of the shower was a feature I wasn't expecting. The morning breakfast was nice with quite a few options. The hotel is beautiful, adorned with history and art from the surrounding area but it was a let down and I would literally only go back there for the views.

toe-in-the-lakes

05/12/2015
,
Windermere

2

« Due to storm Desmond we never even got there ! »

Its a shame really as this was one of the christmas party nights and unfortunatly for us the storm and floods stopped us from going
The review is mainly for the attitude of the reception and manager who never called back
we were looking forward to this on for a while and previous reviews seemed to point that it was going to be a good eve
Because on the day we were unable to travel due to floods , closed roads and overturned lorries reception told us that we do not control the weather , which is true , there is no policy for refunds due to short notice , which i understand ,
basically asked not for a refund but for a stay on another night but answer was a positive no
i also asked to speak with the manager , but again was unable too and also never returned my call
bit of poor customer service
buyer beware

Adrian G

02/12/2015
,
Colyton, United Kingdom

5

« Perfect position to break our regular journies to Scotland »

The hotel is only a couple of miles from the M6, yet beautifully situated down a private road with no road noise. The fourth time we've stayed here and always a pleasure to re-acquaint ourselves with the resident red squirrels behind the Old Bathhouse. Slightly apprehensive booking into Room 101, but we survived!! Minor repairs to some of the rooms wouldn't go amiss, but by and large, this large building has a lot of charm. The restaurant is 'Art Deco' influenced, and serves excellent three-course dinners, with a reasonable wine list at fair prices. The breakfast buffet is very good - I particularly recommend the porridge, but do leave room for the tasty bacon and sausages too. All the staff are friendly and keen to help, and make each guest's stay a pleasant one. An informal library exists in the first floor corridor where guests can take a book to read as long as they leave one for others. It would be nice to enjoy a cask-conditioned ale in the bar but maybe there is insufficient demand, and the keg bitter in front of the roaring log fire was a good substitute. Look forward to our next visit, and hope to sample the Sunday carvery soon.

Michelle Susan W

02/12/2015
,
Scottish Borders, United Kingdom

5

« Excellent »

Great overnight stay, friendly staff.
Room clean and warm, quiet.
Food was excellent, breakfast the best ive had plenty on offer, porridge was wonderful. Would Highly recommend this hotel it has everything

Colledge69

30/11/2015
,
Birmingham, United Kingdom

5

« Value for money »

Great stay for the cost, absolutely no complaints, £26 for the night for 2 lads working out of town is an absolute touch. How people display tasteless photos and moan about the slightest little niggle need to have a quiet word with themselves. Great hotel.

Katie S

30/11/2015
,
Birmingham, United Kingdom

4

« Good overnight stay, great customer service, shame about the wi-fi! »

Great overnight stay for an exceptional value amount (£29 room only!) - had a nice double room; spacious, clean, quiet and tidy. Hotel welcome was second to none as was the morning duty manager today. Parking was easy, was offered breakfast if I wanted it but I didn't as had my own arranged. The hotel in general was pleasant and easy to find using Sat Nav.
Only disappointment was site advertises 'Free Wi-Fi', which I had relied on to login to work PC and get prep done for my training and floorwalking today last night (which did set me back today). However the reception desk offered me access to their internet if I needed it to get information I needed.
Please note there is no available Wi-Fi at this hotel until Feb 2016, until they have fibre optic broadband installed... This was told to me by the Duty Manager. So just be aware when you book.

Mark L

25/11/2015
,
Northampton, United Kingdom

5

« Gateway to The Lakes »

This is a great hotel, overlooking to moors leading to The Lakes. A really great welcome awaits anyone checking in. The rooms are well appointed both within the main hotel building and also 'The Old Bathouse' which is across the car park. Food is very good in both the restaurant and the lounge bar. I was on a business trip, but there were also a couple of coaches on tours at the same time. The hotel is big enough to cope with all.

W W

25/11/2015

4

« Excellent Carvery »

We visit this Hotel a couple of times a year in order to see friends.
The Sunday lunch carvery is always very good and a reasonable price. However, on the latest occasion the staff seemed to be in a great hurry to clear away and didn't keep an eye on the coffee. Finally they brought some fresh but there wasn't apparently any cream to go go with it.

Lucyanne35

24/11/2015
,
Cambridgeshire

4

« Wild and beautiful hotel stay »

You don't go to this part of the world for guaranteed good weather, but rain and wind add a certain beauty to a stay in this tucked-away hotel. Looking at a rushing torrent of water just beneath the bedroom window was great. Hotel slightly mixed - we loved the romantic, old charm of the place, squeaking stairs and endless twisting corridors, and the food was very good, with quite an interesting menu. The staff in the dining room were smiling and helpful, while not always trained to the highest standard, and that applied also to the reception staff. A walk to a waterfall was mentioned in the hotel guide provided in the bedroom, but no-one on reception could tell us where to start from or which direction it was in and in fact had never seen the guide. Bedroom very nice, good size and pleasant, although the bathroom was in need of a little TLC.
We would recommend a stay here - it is a different experience of hotel accommodation; if you are looking to pick fault you will find a few, but we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, and may well go back as it was exceptionally good value for money.
One quibble was that I (and, I gather, others) could not get and stay on the free WIFI, but that didn't seem to worry the staff too much!

carolmac27

17/11/2015
,
Perth, United Kingdom

4

« Weekend away with hubbie »

Lovely hotel and staff very helpful, although the weather was terrible and there was quite a bit of flooding we would definitely stay here again. It is tucked out of the way but it was very nice. We stayed here on our way to Manchester to see out grand-daughter, and on our way back to Scotland

Alan B

17/11/2015
,
Glenrothes, United Kingdom

4

« Overnight stay on route south »

I have stayed at this hotel well in excess of 40 times but not recently.
Booked it through the best western website on this occasion at a very reasonable dbb rate.
Staff have changed a bit still the friendly hotel I have got used to.
Room clean and fresh as usual
Food still well prepared and presented.
Would recommend you try it out if your travelling north to south or south to North
Only 5 minutes off the M6 Shap junction

kaggim

16/11/2015
,
Glasgow, United Kingdom

2

« Nice enough hotel, pleasant staff but dirty bedding »

The hotel is more remote than I expected and I doubt I'd have found it without satnav. When we arrived there were plenty of people there and the lady on reception was lovely. I has heard some reports of the rooms being dirty so I pulled back the bedding when we arrived and it was nicely made up with white bedding. The room was dated and the door wasn't very secure feeling but it was clean and was what we needed for the night. Sadly the next day after I'd slept in the bed I threw back the bed clothes and the throw was disgusting, there were lots of brown marks on the underside that frankly made me feel sick. I showed the receptionist the pictures I'd taken of the bedding and I got a rather cursory apology and asked if I'd put bthe bedding in the bath - as if I'd have wanted to touch it any more than I need too. It was such a shame as I was impressed until that stage.
On the plus side we are in the bar and the food was lovely, good sized portions and great value. I just hope the kitchen has different cleaning staff than the rooms do.
I won't stay here again because of the bedding, and lack of interest from the staff, which is a shame as its a nice location and really handy for the M6.

tonytrig

16/11/2015
,
Harwich, United Kingdom

4

« Three star hotel--four star service!!! »

Loved this hotel--in the middle of nowhere but within driving distance of the lakes, a very nice setting,including local walks to see red squirrels and other wildlife and streams with waterfalls.staff were very pleasant and helpful,food was excellent. Rooms were a bit on the small size and decor was a little dated,but overall a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

Denise M

16/11/2015
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

3

« NEVER AGAIN!!! »

We stayed in this hotel in Cumbria for 1 night. It is only average with the decor a little tired looking and needing redecorating in most of the hotel. Our room was on the ground floor with the on-suite having a sliding door (very noisy in the night!) and smelt of an "Old Folks Home". It had a disabled toilet seat as well!
However, the bar staff are lovely, very friendly and helpful but the restaurant staff are hopeless! Other diners, who came in after us, were served before us and left before us while we were still waiting! I had to ask for the dessert menu in the end otherwise we would still be there!
The final straw came when we went to bed and were kept awake for approx. 3 hours with the dog in the room next door barking continuously. We complained to the Night Receptionist who asked the people in the room next door to quieten the dog down. Surely, if you allow a dog to stay in the hotel you should make sure that it is not left on its own disturbing other people. We were livid and complained to the Receptionist the following morning.
Altogether, we would not stay in the hotel again.

Paddy_Watson146

15/11/2015
,
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

4

« Nice traditional hotel »

Nice hotel, bit out in the middle of no where though - had to drive through lot of country roads to get to it with not that many sign posts - kinda felt like we were going the wrong way!
Room was nice and house keeping were brilliant as well - folded all my t-shirts that were hanging on the chairs!
Bar meal was excellent food despite slow service. There was even entertainment from a magician which was surprising.
Only major negative is there is no card machine at the bar therefore every time you want to pay by card you have to go to the front desk (annoying!) therefore we charged to the room. Breakfast was really good - massive choice and can be delivered to room as well. Upon checkout there was quite a few mistakes on the bill that I thankfully noticed - they happily changed this, however if they just had a card machine at the bar I wouldn't of bothered with room charges.
Wifi was terrible and not even worth using as it was so slow
Nice hotel, bit remote but friendly staff and nice food.

Nannyjean

15/11/2015
,
Limavady, United Kingdom

5

« Nanny Jean »

Absolutely a brilliant Hotel to stay & I would definitely recommend it!! The food, staff, cleanliness & our room were 1st class. Cannot recommend it enough.Wifi wasn't great but that was a minor detail x

Davtherav

14/11/2015
,
Milnthorpe

3

« Afternoon tea »

Oh dear what a disappointing experience. We were the only people there for afternoon tea at 2:30pm. I ordered a bottle of Newcastle Brown Ale and first of all I was asked if I wanted a glass?! Yes please, when it came to table there was no head on it and it was freezing cold. Well I'm sorry but I prefer my beers at a warmer temperature, like red wine, you get the proper taste. So that was a bad start. Before i say anymore I have to say that the price for the afternoon tea was only £6, BUT, it was the poorest that I have ever had. None of it was home-made and the scones were minute. The damson jam was very nice and probably was homemade as it had stones in it, no problem with that. I won't be having another afternoon tea at Shap Wells, sorry!

Cameronmh

13/11/2015
,
Kilmarnock, United Kingdom

4

« Last minute holiday »

Woke up on one morning and decided to go away. Found this place on booking.com for a great price and booked. The hotel is lovely and the staff are very accommodating. We have a 7 week old baby plus a dog. We were in the old boat house and when we arrived early were allowed into the room which was lovely warm, loved how the heating was on. The walk up the river behind the boat house was great for my dog. There were minor issues with the room but nothing I would shout about. The bar has some lovely Ale's and are served cold and refreshing but take money as you need to spend a minimum of £10 to use your card, but if your buying bar food then that won't really matter. The bar food looked amazing and great portion size, the main restaurant was overpriced. Would probably stay in the bar next time. All in all lovely place, if you have a baby the reception staff are very helpful if you need bottles sterilised. Comfy beds, warm room, clean bathroom and brilliant walks.
Would defiantly recommend

ojs149

12/11/2015
,
Norwich, United Kingdom

4

« Very good value for money. »

This is a very well located, comfortable hotel with a nice service from the staff. Many may think that the hotel is located in the middle of nowhere. But it is really located in the middle of everywhere - 15 mins to Penrith, 25 to Kendall, 25 to Keswick. Good location also if you want to go walking. There are a lot of local high points - Scafell Point is a good drive (about 1.5 hours away) so you do need to plan ahead. But there is lots of other very good walking to do within about 30 minutes. Our most enjoyable walk of them all was Great Gable from Seathwaite.
Yes the hotel is dated with regards to its décor, but it is cosy (there is a nice open fire), clean and gives of a nice relaxing feel. The bar is good, the food is absolutely fine and good value for money, there is also a good choice for breakfast. All of the staff were friendly, happy to help and obviously work very hard. Check in was a little bit interesting - not quite as warm as you would expect and we had to ask questions about what time breakfast was served, how to access the Wifi (which was fine for basic needs) and where the restaurant was as the check in manager seemed to forget. However, what they lacked in memory, they certainly made up for it when giving us information about the local towns, best places to go and directions. The bedrooms were clean, tidy and warm. However, the twin room we stayed in was small. Considering many people will share twin rooms because they have come to the location for walking, cycling or "events" put on by the hotel - there was not a huge amount of space for two people to store their stuff. The bathrooms were clean and there was an excellent amount of hot water available for the shower. Although this hotel has some quirks and is not the most stylish, I would certainly visit here again - either with mates, or my family. The value for money when we booked was excellent and not to be argued with. All in all, a pleasant experience.

Jacqui B

07/11/2015

5

« Anniversary Break »

Booked the hotel about 2 hours before arriving after deciding to have a couple of days in the lakes to celebrate our anniversary. We'd been looking at hotels and in the end decided just to set off and sort accommodation when we got there. We liked the look of the pictures but were dubious after reading the reviews but thought we'd risk it due to the bargain price. Thank god we did!!! Driving the mile down the private road I could feel my excitement building getting further and further away from civilisation I could feel the stress of day to day life melt away. Pulling up as the rain stopped and seeing the hotel surrounded by stars I knew we were in for a treat. The hotel offered personality and history that others involved in a chain don't. The staff were warm welcoming and very helpful. We ate in the bar which gave me the best (and biggest) burger I've had in a long time. The sound of the river running by was the only noise I could hear all night. The bed the biggest I think I've ever been in (rolled over twice in the night and still didn't reach my partner for snuggles). We were just looking for a bed for the night but have found a hotel we can't wait to go back to. See you soon x

Dan B

07/11/2015

5

« Lovely weekend away »

Amazing value in the middle of nowhere.lovely food. The hotel was perfect the room was huge lovely and clean. Nice big comfy bed. It only cost 26pound . For the room. And havent got a bad word to say about this place.will be visiting again soon. Me and my partner had a lovely first anniversary.

S3ATS

07/11/2015

4

« Overnight stop »

This hotel is just off the M6 and was perfect for a night stop on our way north. The room was comfortable, staff friendly and beer reasonable. Yes it is slightly dated in areas, but we had no complaints with the service or facilities. And it's not expensive either. Would use again.

Dalbystorm

06/11/2015
,
Melton Mowbray

5

« Love it! »

It's got history, is like a rabbit Warren to find the room (75). We arrived to deathly quiet hotel 'on the moors' which erupted into life in the evening!
Food prices are good so worth eating here than driving miles. Beautifully quiet bar the rush of the stream. Very warm hotel, kept heating off and windows open and still suitable in November.
No musty smells. I thought it was great. I would definitely come back.
Friendly bar lady. Worst part was unclean cup and spoon in room. Soon put right by the older lady who hadn't done it right initially!!

Magalie C

02/11/2015

1

« Disappointing »

The hotel can do with some renovation!
The bathroom was smelling badly and the wifi though advertised free wasn't actually and didn't work AT ALL!!
It is really disappointing because the building is ancient and charming and the area is beautiful and peaceful.
The service provided was far from being the greatest.

Milliespringer

02/11/2015
,
Stranraer, United Kingdom

4

« Good service and value for money »

I knew it was off the m6 at the a6 turn off for Kendall but satnav and iPhone mapping wouldn't fire up to give us directions, it was a great relief that the hotel is well signposted and it was one of the few areas that was fog free as the single track road across bleak moorland had us worried. We were very pleased to find the hotel in a hidden valley. The interior design is oddly retro but well finished, with patterned carpets and slopping floors, all the food was excellent, drinks were well priced, staff were all friendly and helpful. Downside was the wifi and coffee.

Kayleigh901

02/11/2015
,
Oswestry, United Kingdom

4

« Lovely Setting »

Stayed here on a last minute night away, we stayed in the annex - our room was clean and really spacious a typical Best Western Hotel. It is in the middle of nowhere but a lovely forest walk at the back of the hotel where you can see red squirrels - there are many walks in the area too. Food in the bar was very tasty, service was good and drinks were not overpriced!!! This is a good value hotel and if in the area I would stay here again. Thank you :)

Bill W

31/10/2015
,
Northampton, United Kingdom

4

« Good in parts.... »

Stayed at this hotel for five nights in late October 2015, on a bed breakfast and evening meal basis.
First the good bits, clean, spacious and comfortable rooms,helpful and knowledgable reception staff, good housekeeping team.
However, this hotel is let down by the waiting staff/supervision in the dining room. Service was a little slow and haphazard at the best of times,but on the Thursday evening it was absolutely terrible. Our starters arrived reasonably quickly but once these had been cleared away, there was a wait of 30 minutes after which I enquired how much longer our main courses would be and was told "two minutes". Ten minutes later they finally arrived. I asked the restaurant supervisor why service was taking so long and was told that they had a party of 20 who had booked in at the last minute and this was the reason for the long wait. Needless to say this really annoyed me, and I let the management know in no uncertain terms of my displeasure.
To give credit where it was due, an apology was forthcoming from the duty manager and the cost of the meal deducted from my final bill. We had no problem at all with the quality and choice of the food, but the restaurant staff and management really need to up their game as they have the potential to make this venue a really great place to eat.
I should mention that on our last night (Friday) we were looked after by the excellent Adrian, whose professionalism and attention to detail were a breath of fresh air. Most of the rest of the waiting staff could do worse than take a few lessons in customer service from him.
Breakfast was better, as it was buffet style and you helped yourself to the large selection of items on offer and in addition could order kippers, poached smoked haddock and poached or boiled eggs.
So in summary, what could have been a 5 star review was unfortunately downgraded to 4 stars because of the poor experience in the dining room.

Simon G

30/10/2015
,
Kent, United Kingdom

1

« Best Western to keep this hotel a secret! »

Dont bother, rooms old and tired and mine stank on mould plus growing in bathroom - Bed must of been over 10 plus years old and the quaint old blankets instead on quilts made the sleep a real nightmare - Oh and if you need to do work forget it as the WIFI comes and goes like our customers i was told - well its gone and not coming back! if you have any sense - AVOID!!!!

stephanie b

29/10/2015
,
Wigan, United Kingdom

4

« Nice little get away »

Stayed here with my fiance for two nights on the winter wine and dine deal which cost £158 for both of us with evening meal and breakfast the first night a bottle of wine with evening meal. On arrival we were really impressed with the look of the hotel its literally in the middle of nowhere with stunning surroundings. The reception staff checked us in and were very friendly and helpful. We stayed in room 110 which was lovely and clean and a very good size. A little dated but it was what we expected. The only downfall to the room was that it was so hot all the time as it was directly over the kitchen also our view was of the roof with all the extractor fans as you can imagine very very noisy. Our evening meals were lovely with a good choice of food on the menu and huge portions!! The service was extremely slow in the restaurant we waited 30 minutes on both nights in between starter main and dessert. The breakfast was really nice with plenty of choice but again the staff were a let down they don't seem to have a good team and I often saw waitresses giving orders to others and rolling of eyes and comments made behind their backs. We visited penrith which is easy to find and a lovely quaint little town. The red squirrels are a must see and we couldn't believe how many there were. All in all a really good stay.

Anthony P

26/10/2015
,
Norwich, United Kingdom

5

« Secret Jem hidden in the fields »

What a Hotel, quiet, secluded, comfortable, great food, evening dinner 3 course, friendly staff, helpful, tucked away in the hills,surrounded by sheep, red squirrels and waterfalls around the Hotel.
Bedrooms are small,comfortable, CLEAN,maybe old fashioned but is that not the charm that this place is ? We were on a coach party outing but it was so enjoyable. We wish we could have stayed longer. A great place for touring. Fab-u-lous.

Alan B

24/10/2015
,
Carlisle, United Kingdom

5

« Murder Mystery Night »

We stayed in the hotel attending the Murder Mystery they had organised. We had lunch when we arrived which was lovely. The evening itself was very well organised and faultless, the meal was delicious, my braised steak was to die for. The bedroom was very comfortable and clean. We managed to fit in a walk to see the red squirrels which was exciting as they are few and far between now. Overall it was an excellent evening and would highly recommend this hotel.

Acct33

23/10/2015
,
Coventry, United Kingdom

4

« Good at what it does...catering for coach trips! ....and red squirrels! »

I was in the slightly unusual position of being in my late 30s and going on a coach trip with my Mum who is in her 80s. So my review is from the perspective of being part of a coach party.
The hotel is in absolutely stunning surroundings with red squirrels a plenty in residence in the near by woods. The hotel itself is traditional in its styling, think fleur de lis carpets and chesterfield sofas. We had a twin room (actually there were 3 beds) which was clean and had plenty of storage and a nice sized bathroom.
The staff, particularly those that served dinner, were brilliant. For the coach parties there was a choice of starters, 4 main courses and desserts. The choice was good and the accompanying veg was always well cooked. Self serve breakfast was also great, with the cooked breakfasts been constantly restocked.
There was a small gym available which is in a fairly odd location (just off the games room so little odd to be plodding away on the treadmill with no door between you and the pool table!). Having said that I did use this a couple of times and I was the only person there, so no issues.
Only minor quibble was the need to request a wifi voucher every day from reception to get access to the free wifi. It was a little fiddly to log on each time on a phone, but once this was done the wifi signal was fine.
All in all it delivered and was a great base for our coach trip of the lakes

stanlpool

22/10/2015
,
liverpool

5

« ogdens coach holiday »

we arrived at the shap wells on the 12th October for five days and what a wonderful five days we had . the location is stunning, we saw it in autumn but spring summer and winter must be beautiful in their own rights, we found our room was what we asked for and close to the lift, the room was spotlessly clean and kept so, the dining room again was spotless the food really good with a different choice to make daily. after evening meal, 3 course plus coffee/tea we sat in the lounge bar in comfortable chesterfield style sofas and enjoyed the evenings entertainment and more than one trip to the bar, the bar staff couldn't be faulted

Joe B

20/10/2015
,
Brecon, United Kingdom

4

« A lovely clean hotel »

Had a very nice stay here whilst on a coach trip organised through work, stayed with friends, did not have long enough but would come back, very nice quality. Excellent surroundings, food lovely. Room very clean and comfortable. Highly recommend.

Digitalexplorer

20/10/2015

4

« Lovely »

My partner and I stayed here over a weekend and really enjoyed it. It was a perfect place away from the busy lakes towns and setting is stunning. The streams running past and squirrel's in the trees. The buffet breakfast was nice and had hot full English and loads of cereals. The only down side for us was the food served from the bar as this was clearly microwaved and not very appetising at all especially when you've paid over £30 for 2 mains. We did really enjoy our stay here it is a great Base to explore the south lake's and we would definateley return hopefully to some better food. The staff are all nice and friendly to.

Sandy151

19/10/2015
,
uk

4

« Good hotel but rooms in need of a clean. »

Had room 15 which had two nice size windows.
Breakfast was nice and there were lots of choice, also as much tea and coffee you wanted.
Evening meal had three courses so plenty to choose from asked if i could have more veg and this was quickly served.Staff we dealt with were very good, kind and helpfull.
There is a lift ( never used it though ) for those thats unable to do stairs.
Floor boards did make a noise but this is due to the age of the building, we were lucky in our room as there was only one place they squeeked, so avoided this area as much as poss.
Bathroom had bath and shower and heated towel rail. Water was very hot but temp can be ajusted to suit. Plenty of towels were provided.
I would stay here again for peace and quite, but transport is needed as it's way off the beacon track but the views are stunning.
I asked for a iron and ironing board this was delivered to the room in less than 5 mins and was told to leave them in room when we left.
Wifi was not working for me anyway.

MDSTravel

17/10/2015
,
West Sussex, United Kingdom

1

« Lost »

Hotel in middle of nowhere poor service at reception when you could get any, room well what can you say about a broom cupboard 6ft wide at its widest point which is where the bed was,no wardrobe hook on wall to hang clothes on, dirty mould in the tiny shower cubicle, constant high pitched whistle from somewhere and in the night noise from a motor of some sort poor sleep, if here on business wi fi does not work they advertise wi fi all over Hotel, not in broom cupboard and very weak elsewhere, reception NOT INTERESTED all in all very bad Hotel avoid at all costs

bessypolo2003

13/10/2015
,
Manchester, United Kingdom

4

« Off the beaten track »

We have just stayed at the Shap Wells hotel this weekend, arrived to a warm welcome from Emma, room was pleasant and clean, bedding was changed the next morning and room tidied,fantastic place to explore, 40 mins from Windermere and the lakes, roughly a mile from the A6 so no traffic noise, the hotel has some interesting history and a red squirrel sanctuary very close so for the walker/nature lover it's an ideal base. We will defiantly be back.

alxrh

11/10/2015
,
Weston, United Kingdom

3

« Curious but charming »

You really can see loads of red squirrels here, especially first thing when its quiet - and there's plenty of other wild life too and plenty of opportunity for fine walks , It's a country place for country people. The staff were bluff but friendly enough. Visit for the situation far away from shops and noise in the heart of the great outdoors and it's really charming. The food we found disappointing .Breakfast adequate, no more than that, and likewise the evening meal. A choice of two gateau for desert and the chocolate gateau chosen by my friend was dry and not served with any cream or icecream. It tarnishes ones experience of what really is a magical place.

Highland_Scot1

09/10/2015
,
Scotland, United Kingdom

4

« Very good lunch in lounge »

A nice spot to stop at for lunch in the large and comfortable lounge. The staff are very friendly and polite and very helpful. We had some drinks from the bar and decided to have some lunch, the soup of the day was wonderful, full of flavour and very tasty, nice size of serving and came with bread, we had some sandwiches which were presented very nicely and certainly hit the spot well, We both had sweets and then coffee afterwards. The sofas are so comfortable that we could have sat in the lounge all afternoon. The hotel has many interesting pictures on the walls and we had a wee wander about and can imagine that this hotel would be very good for a break away. It is located in a quiet and beautiful area, they have red squirrels, which we adore. If ever in the area again, we will look in to booking a room.

Went on a weekend break with the buy-a-gift from our daughter for the beginning of October. Check in was from 3 pm so we ended up in a queue which seemed a little overwhelming for the guy in reception. We ended up in the Old Bath House which is very dated and could do with a good clean in the public areas. Thankfully we didn't have any bad weather to contend with when crossing the car park to the main hotel. We booked in for the restaurant, about 15-20 tables and the service was terrible, very slow and when we eventually got to the sweet course our waiter asked if we wanted a menu then drifted off to talk to other guests and then left the the room, we then after about 20 minutes had to ask another waiter for the menu. Go for a bar meal its much quicker and the stall are 100% better. If you prefer a shower in the morning get in quick the bath house can't cope for hot water and runs out fairly quickly. The wi-fi is a complete waste of time, kept being told its a fault with the cable. Overall would we go back, sorry no I'll give this a miss.

johnjoan47

06/10/2015
,
New Brighton, United Kingdom

5

« A good stay »

Stayed on a Sunday night on a coach trip with GB Tours . We were served a 3 course evening meal with 4 choices of starter , 4 choices of main courses and 3 choices of sweet and then a cup of tea or coffee.. People who require gluten free or dairy free are catered for . Breakfast was self service with a good choice of food.
The twin bedded room was quite spacious.
The only thing to remember is that to mention if you are disabled as the lift takes you to the first floor and some of the rooms require a further climb up about 12 stairs.

Snoozle

04/10/2015
,
Kendal, UK

3

« Mixed feelings about this hotel »

My husband got me a 'Buy-a-gift' for Christmas, so although we had a voucher it wasn't particularly cheap. I feel we were put in the cheapest room, backing the hotel. My impression of the hotel is that is is a throw back to the 70's, they still have tea cups in the room, a small low powered hairdryer attached to the wall and blankets!. There's no frills (similar to Travelodge, but not the price!) i.e. no biscuits, no bathroom extras other than a large handwash and body wash. The rooms were lacking in details, such as the (new?) bathroom had a pipe running on the outside of the wall to the bath taps, the handwash is placed too high above the sink etc. The shower was built in the corner of the room where the ceiling comes down low, making it very difficult to shower without banging our heads. There was nothing majorily wrong, but nothing majorliy right either. The food again was very 70's - basic menu, huge portions and tasted nice enough. Nice staff. I would probably return if there was a really good deal, but wouldn't race back.

Robert W

03/10/2015
,
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom

4

« Belated Christmas buy-a-gift present »

We were late in redeeming our buy-a-gift voucher but we were not disappointed. This hotel, bigger than anticipated, 96 rooms, is set in a very quiet forested area of Cumbria off the M6. The weather helped but there are various walks into woodland areas which we covered in the first two days. There is a red squirrel reserve and plenty of them to see, especially after breakfast. The hotel staff are friendly and the evening meal and the breakfasts are very good. If I had any constructive criticisms it would be the evening meal which is a set meal with multiple choices of each of the three courses for £21.95 - there is no restaurant al a carte from a menu, though you can eat in the bar/lounge from a bar menu but be careful what you choose. We didn't want 3 courses on the second night so we chose a Balti bar meal. Sorry but it was tinned curry chicken with little sauce, plain rice, dry naan but nice poppadum. Despite this would recommend a stay here in beautiful surroundings

Philip T

02/10/2015
,
Preston, United Kingdom

1

« Avoid the Old Bath House »

If you are using a hotel break gift voucher at the Shap Wells Hotel beware of the Old Bath House! It is a separate annexe primarily for guests with dogs, which may be acceptable if you are willing for lower standards to have your pet with you, but for other guests it's not.
The room we had was dark, dingy, generally tired and had ventilation issues with black mould around the tiny window, door and elsewhere.
On Shap Well's web site it states that rooms in the Old Bath House have ?extensive views? our room didn't, it was just foliage/bushes.
Again on Shap Well's own web site it states that ?Our 98 bedrooms which have recently been refurbished?, note, this only relates to rooms in the main hotel building. Our room in the Old Bath House has certainly not been updated recently.
The sound proofing in the rooms is also an issue, lying in bed and hearing the occupants in the room above urinating in their toilet is not the ideal way to be woken up.
If the hotel is proud of the rooms in the Old Bath House, and you don't have a dog, inform all guests when they are booking, i.e. you will not be in the main hotel and that the room standard is compromised due to the facility for dogs accompanying guests.
On initial booking-in this was the first time we were aware of being placed in the Old Bath House, my wife did ask if we could be relocated within the actual hotel but was told that all the rooms were fully booked. Can't help thinking that hotel break gift voucher concludes with a room in the Old Bath House.
The hotel seems to rely on coach trip guests as its primary source of income, which is fine, but on our included first night dinner we found the service to be very slow and the food had either over cooked or had been left standing too long. Basically, staff in the restaurant couldn't cope with the volume of coach trippers and other guests.
The red squirrels are a plus and the two female staff who were behind the bar during our stay who were helpful and pleasant.
Finally, we are dog owners and have no problem with hotels which provide facilities for guests to have their pet accompany them on holiday, the issue here is that Shap Wells should inform guests without pets when booking where their room is located and that room standards are lower in the Old Bath House.